‘American Idol’ notes: Season 12 promo, Phillip Phillips news

We’re doing a little bit of an abridged version of “American Idol” notes on Thursday, largely due to the fact that the biggest news pertaining to the show at the moment (in Kelly Clarkson’s Grammy nominations) has already been announced here at the page.

So what do we have to talk about instead? Well, let’s kick things off with a new promo for season 12 featuring none other than country star Keith Urban, who does seem to already be at home on stage critiquing the hopefuls. Our one negative? That he has already committed one of our biggest pet peeves in handing out the classic version of “you are what this show is about.” (Really, this show is about Simon Fuller making money, people!) How do you hand this sort of critique to a contestant who could fall flat on their face later?

It is nice to see a few hopefuls, though, and we love the guy with the crazy hair (Chris Sligh 2.0) already. (Video via Mjsbigblog.)

Phillip Phillips news – For all fans of Phillip that are out there, we have a pair of interesting headlines to share. First, congratulations are in order to the reigning champ for reaching his highest place on the Billboard Hot 100 yet! “Home” is currently sitting at #7, which is also the highest spot for a coronation spot since David Cook’s “The Time of My Life” hit #3 after season 7. However, it should be noted that “Home” has had a much longer shelf life.

In addition, Phillip will get a chance to preform during Fox’s New Year’s Eve show, which will be broadcast live this year from the famed Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

If you want to read some other “American Idol” news on Kelly, you can do so here.