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March 28, 2007
Attack of the Tweens
When this season of American Idol began, there was an article in the New York Times about the AI juggernaut, with executives from other networks wondering what could possibly kill this show?
After watching Sanjaya's train wreck of a performance last night, I think we've found the answer. The kid was terrible - he sounded like he was slurring or mumbling part of the time, seemed to forget some of the lyrics, was indifferent to pitch and I'm not really sure what was up with the hair.
This is the first season where the cannon fodder (mediocre singers who are picked to keep the talented safe) has really started to take a toll on the talent and on my enjoyment of the show. Sanjaya is a cute kid with some heart, but he's not as talented as others on that show and if he nudges out Jordin, Melinda, LaKisha or even Gina - the show will be effectively over. There has always been a popularity contest vibe to the show, but this is the first season it's grated so much. Perhaps it's the sudden attack of 'tude Malakar is throwing at the judges lately - I'm not real fond of brats.
Now that we know "The Malakar" is safe for another week, I just can't do it anymore, and I'm wondering how many others are saying the same thing. Maybe Sanjaya is a plant from another network, with the mission of killing the show. If so, well done, sir.
BTW... - Do I really believe he'll be the death of the show?
No, not really. But I think Malakar will be the proverbial straw to many fans, and will be the impetus for change. I fully expect we'll see a different format next year, with new rules for voting, and better selections at the outset of the stage competition. Remember, at the end of this show, the producers have to spend a lot of money trying to market the winner.
So while tweens may rule the voting, many of them don't have the income to purchase the eventual album and make the Simons who run the show rich. Since they're in this to get rich, I expect they will do what they can to improve the show in their favor.
Posted by slublog at March 28, 2007 09:23 PM
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Comments
There are two problems with this post. One, you are watching American Idol for enjoyment and two, you think "Sanjaya is cute".
Stick with 24 analysis and leave AI to People (mag) and E!.
Posted by: cubohombre at March 29, 2007 08:47 AM
Cute like a puppy or other small helpless, foolish animal.
I like watching people sing. That's the appeal of Idol to me.
Posted by: Slublog at March 29, 2007 08:55 AM