In the past we’ve discussed different ways in which American Idol could perhaps put a new spin on the show and maybe even make the show better by changing some of the ways they do things. I know that a lot of people have offered up different ideas and opinions on what the producers should consider doing to increase viewership and viewer satisfaction, however, I’m not sure if adding a fourth judge was what anyone had in mind.
Yet, that is precisely what the producers of American Idol have decided to do. Songwriter Kara DioGuardi has been asked, and has agreed, to join the judging panel on America’s top rated television program. The Grammy-nominated songwriter will make her debut when the eighth season of Idol premieres in January, the Fox network said Monday.
It isn’t yet clear what role the 37-year-old songwriter will fill or exactly how the show will now work with a fourth judge involved in the process. The producers, however, say that they had originally intended for the show to have four judges, and, in fact, many of the international versions do have four judges.
But who is Kara DioGuardi? She’s not widely known outside of the industry at all. Of course, neither were Randy and Simon when the show began, but still…
DioGuardi co-owns the Los-Angeles based company Arthouse Entertainment, which is now producing music by recent Idol runner-up David Archuleta.
DioGuardio’s songs have been recorded by Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood and Pink, among others. Her recent Top 40 hits include Stefani’s “Rich Girl,” Aguilera’s “Ain’t No Other Man,” Clarkson’s “Walk Away” and Dion’s “Taking Chances.”
In 2000, the New York-born songwriter and longtime friend Abdul co-wrote the dance tune “Spinning Around” for Aussie pop star Kylie Minogue.
For her part, DioGuardio says that she most closely identifies with the advice that Simon gives, saying that it’s usually “spot on.” However, she makes it clear that she intends to be “honest” and “feisty” if need be to fight for what she believes in.
Some of her favorite past contestants were Clarkson and season-seven finalist Brooke White.
What do you think? Is adding a fourth judge going to make the show better or worse?
All things being equal I would have preferred adding a new one and dumping Paula, but at least with 4 we may have to hear her less.
Although I don't necessarily feel like they need more judge time and less singing time… it will be interesting to have some new feedback/perspective… because I think we all can admit that the current three's comments are tired - “You could sing the phone book” - Randy; “I… (sobbing)… I'm… just… so blown away by your colors and textures” - Paula; “If I'm being honest, that was like a ghastly cruise ship performance” - Simon. Bring it on, new girl.