American Idol Adds Nashville Influence
This is the day I’ve been waiting for. American Idol has finally added a fourth judge to their panel of … um … esteemed experts, and I know she’ll bring a lot to that little one-sided conference table. Her name is Kara DioGuardi, and her ties to Nashville give her the right to voice her opinion. In my opinion, anyway.
Carrie Underwood proved to America that country music matters more, and sells more, than any other genre. And DioGuardi has done some time on Music Row, writing songs for Underwood, plus Faith Hill, Jewel, Jessica Simpson, Martina McBride and a long list of the hottest pop stars.
But it’s the Nashville cred that makes me believe in her, more so than I ever really believed in the other judges. Paula, let’s face it, loved everyone. And her criticisms were never very constructive. Randy’s only complaint was that someone was too pitchy, making me think that if everyone sounded that damn pitchy then maybe Randy should have his hearing checked. And then there’s Simon. The king of the compound modifier. “It was all a very beauty-pageant-talent-show kind of performance.” Or, “That had a bit of a Cher-after-visiting-the-dentist sound.” His critiques were so over the top that I’m sure the contestants could barely hear him through the tears they were fighting back.
It’s likely none of that will change now that a fourth judge is joining them. But I’m just hoping that the DioGuardi brings a fresh perspective and keeps the old guard on their toes. Maybe they’ll work a little harder trying to befriend the new girl and stop resting on their laurels so much.
(Photo courtesy of Fox)
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B.W. LaRoy says:
Never heard of her. She’s Nashville, an adult, not Blonde, and not Blonde, and wants to be famous? Hmmm…um…must know somebody who knows somebody…who’s…um…Blonde…and…like I said…never heard of her…
flutterfly says:
I think you’re overstating her Nashville connection. The song DioGuardi wrote for Carrie didn’t make Carnival Ride. It’s a bonus track available if you buy the Music Pass version of the album. The song is called Sometimes You Leave.
The song DioGuardi wrote for Faith Hill did make it onto her Greatest Hits album but it barely made a dent on the country charts. That song was called Lost. It didn’t measure up to Faith’s usual standard.
No doubt DioGuardi has been trying to make inroads in Nashville. She’s a smart woman who knows where songwriters thrive. She’ll be a good addition to the Idol panel. But while she’s good with a hook I haven’t been impressed with her songwriting yet. Her lyrics tend to be too generic for country.
Paul the Dad says:
The only news is that millions of people tuned away from the political convention to check out this non-story. Including the myself.
Fern says:
Kara also wrote six of Diana DeGarmo’s songs on her debut album ‘Blue Skies.’
CJ says:
I say give her a chance. Lets see how she is before we judge her…. Welcome to Idol Kara!
MiaT says:
Maybe I will start watching this show again. I grew way to tired of all the hipe & stupid comments from “the judges”.
Mandy says:
I absolutely love Kara DioGuardi. Not only does she have an amazing voice and incredible songs, but she has really brought a breath of fresh air to Idol.