American Idol 16 video: Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan speak out on GMA
This morning Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie made their first joint TV appearance together on Good Morning America to promote the new season of the show (debuting on ABC) at some point this midseason, and they spoke a little bit about the changing culture in music, trying to figure out what it means to be a star today, and what they like about this platform and being a part of this show specifically versus some of the others that are out there.
One thing that we do really like about what Perry has to say in this segment is that she clearly seems to understand that the point of this show is not about just bowing to the feet of the judges — there’s something else equally important going on here and it’s tied to figuring out how to make some of these contestants into superstars. This is a show that is much bigger than any one person who is on the judging panel, and they want to make sure that’s clear. (As entertaining as The Voice is, the focus on the coaches has always been one of the more problematic parts of it — it’s hard for a contestant after the fact to feel like a star when it’s the coaches who are constantly promoted like that.)
If there’s one thing we’re still worried about here it’s the chemistry — how are these three going to deal with each other on the panel? Are they going to have a fun relationship? At the moment we’re still so early in the game that it’s not the easiest thing in the world to know. What we do like is that all of them have been in their industries for long enough now that they know now only how to have a career; they also know how to maintain it. They’ve had a number of hits and understand what’s important about finding your way in the industry.
Ultimately one way or the other you can’t judge American Idol 16 based on one interview that is taking place within a studio separate from the show; it’ll be judged more based on what actually happens on the show itself next year. Given all of the money that was poured into the panel and to host Ryan Seacrest, let’s hope that everyone brings their A-game and tries to make this into a fun, positive experience. Also, let’s hope for some actually criticism from the judges and not just people trying to be nice.
Does this interview make you more or less excited for American Idol 16 to happen?
Be sure to share with some of your thoughts right now in the comments! Also, you can head over here to read more of what Katy, Lionel, and Luke had to say upon getting the gig.
Also, like us on Facebook to get some news on American Idol and other shows we cover at CarterMatt. (Photo: ABC.)