American Idol Season 6: Here We Go Again!

Talking to my 84-year-old grandmother Tuesday morning, I learned she planned an evening in front of the television just like me – glued to the two-hour premier of American Idol’s much anticipated sixth season. It’s a bit ridiculous, quite honestly, to devote as much time as I do to a show that I swore up and down I’d never watch. But, like Grandma, I really like that Simon.

While there’s a population out there that certainly tunes in to see people make fools of themselves, I tune in for that rare talent, something that was hard to come by in the Minneapolis auditions. In fact, only 17 wannabes got their tickets to Hollywood. Unfortunately, the show seemed to focus on people like Stephen – a guy who claimed to be a vocal teacher. It brings to mind the old saying “Those who can’t, teach.” (Please teachers, no assaults here please – it’s a sayin’ we’ve all heard before.) Not only was his audition hideous, viewers had to sit through a never-ending verbal pow-wow between this hack job and the ever-hip Randy Jackson.

Speaking of the “dawg,” what was with his makeup last night? With every passing year, the layers of caked foundation get thicker and lighter and scarier. On the plus side though, I was wondering what the producers had up their sleeves this year to keep me enticed. Turns out, Randy’s switch from Mr. Nice Guy to “Mr. Let the Fists Fly” just may do the trick.

What won’t work though is endless focus on individuals – particularly those without an ounce of talent or sense. They should rename it “American Idiot.” It could just be me, but it seemed like last night more than ever people were just there for their opportunity to be on TV. Remember the good ol’ days when being on TV was a privilege for the common folk? Now it seems to be an expectation. Too bad. It’s also too bad that someone like the bubbly Perla squeaked through on looks and personality alone. More so looks. I wish I had her hair … but back to the subject at hand … at least she redeemed herself with Shakira’s popular “Hips Don’t Lie.”

And what was up with the exit doors? There were double doors and inevitably, the awkward contestants would go to the left only to be abruptly locked out. The judges, joined by the softly soulful Jewel, would clamor “It’s the other one.” Couldn’t they at least put up a sign?

Thankfully, some real talent eked through. I’ll be looking for 16-year-old Denise Jackson, the “crack baby.” She may have entered the world with a strike against her, but it seems all she’s done since is strike back with a sassy personality and a powerful voice.

Another favorite that made the spotlight was the lovely Sarah who easily sailed through to Hollywood with her rendition of “Over the Rainbow.” She’s a real contender for the Top 12. And he may not be Top 12 material but he certainly has potential – pimply 16-year-old Matt Sato whose voice was almost angelic.

My favorite part of last night’s offering? When the self-proclaimed “biggest” fan of American Idol, Brenna Kyner, asked if there was anything she could do to improve. Simon’s response? “Leave.”

Yep, Grandma and I really like that Simon!