I watched as much American Idol as I could this season. Critics in the blogosphere were saying that the televised talent competition was on its deathbed. Without judge Simon Cowell, “Who would provide the program’s edge?” the naysayers wrote. As it turns out, American Idol didn’t need Cowell’s negativity. It seems that the nation tired of the coarseness that Cowell delivered to ‘Idol’ during the Bush-Cheney era. With new judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler along with veteran Randy Jackson, ‘Idol’ had a new comfortable feel that led to a successful season.
It’s not only the judges that make a good American Idol season -- it’s the top 13 contestants that drive ratings up. The 2011 season not only saw true young professionals at the top of their game, but a variety of talent from diverse backgrounds. From Heavy Metal enthusiast James to the soulful Jacob, ‘Idol’ provided a connection with millions of viewers.
In the end, it came down to two young contestants with a Country and Western flair from the South. How did this happen? Does the nation prefer C&W over other genres? Aside from their raw vocal talent and a somewhat personal connection, I believe the nation chose Scotty and Lauren because they rejected the uber-showbiz shtick that came from the other contestants. Jacob laid on too much Luther Vandross drama while Haley’s growl was over the top. Don’t me wrong: they’re fantastic and could end up with lucrative recording contracts.
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When ‘Idol’ first premiered, I didn’t care for the fact that it makes instant celebrities out of young people who didn’t pay their dues in the music business. There is no doubt in my mind that a young Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor or Billy Joel could have ever competed in such a competition. Those artists worked for years to hone their craft and find themselves. But, I confess that over the years, I enjoyed rooting for the talented innocent kids like Carrie Underwood or an unlikely winner, Taylor Hicks. But, this season, ‘Idol’ was different. Scotty, Lauren, the judges and even host Ryan Seacrest gave America a ‘Kinder, Gentler Idol’ and we can all use that right now.