Have you brought more of a rock element to the show and less of a pop element?
There is one kid there with a rock element about him and he is totally off the wall. I have hopes he makes it through, his voice is so crazy and great. Yeah I am bringing rock element, I've got a good ear for all music.
Do you think bringing in someone of your stature gives the show extra credibility?
I would think so. My judging is simple - can they sing, do they have character and star quality? I've got the drumming, I've the pitch, I'm gonna take it up a notch.
Can you be just as sympathetic to some guy working in a gas station looking for his big break as to some guy who has been working in the clubs already?
That's a great question. I am listening to these kids regardless… I am looking for that certain something that these kids have. If they're good to begin with and I've got my own melodic sensibility that is judging theirs. I hold an ear to everyone really close, regardless of their background.
Jennifer Lopez
How would you describe your judging style?
My whole approach is to be honest, to give my honest impressions and help them either get to the next level or be honest with them with the fact that they're not going to make it to the next level. I think the truth can be harsh sometimes, but for me it's not about breaking spirits. It's about letting people know what they're doing right and if I think or Steven thinks or Randy thinks they have a future in this.
What can you tell us about the talent that has auditioned so far?
We've put a bunch of people through - probably more than they have in the past. We have about 15 to 20 real superstars, people who could be recording artists.
Has the auditioning process taken its toll?
I've cried. We get a lot of elation when we put them through and devastation, almost, when they're not. But it's been a ball.
Will you perform on Idol?
Maybe. If it fits in with the show and my life.
Randy Jackson
With the departure of Simon, do you have any intention of stepping into his place?
I wouldn't say I stepped into Simon Cowell's shoes. I don't think those shoes could be filled, nor would I want to be in them! But I think you'll see a lot of excitement.
Jennifer has suggested you are the mean job on the show this year?
Oh, come on! Jennifer, come on, take it back! It's not true!
What sort of artist are you looking for this season?
I hope that Idol finds a killer vocalist who helps to change music completely. Michael Jackson and Prince just slaughtered the business. Elvis slaughtered the business. I can't remember a time when someone was that important in the history of the game of music.
So, Idol is setting its sights even higher this year?
For sure, no one has come in and changed the game, I hope that this time we find that quintessential star.
Season 10 of American Idol airs on OSN FIRST and OSN SERIES every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 21:00
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