‘American Idol XIII’ promo all about the contestants, the journey

“American Idol” may not always make the flashiest commercials out there, but for season 13 at the moment, they seem to be doing and saying all the right things. Is the latest promo all about the judges? Far from it. They aren’t even mentioned in the video, nor do they appear. This is all supposedly about real contestants trying to make a real journey for themselves to be the next big thing in music. The new producing team has a good grasp here on what should set this show apart from the others, and that is the warm, optimistic viewpoint it provides.

When you look at this promo versus recent ones for “The Voice” or “The X Factor,” it’s not in your face or promising the next big superstar. It also recognizes that the real enjoyment of the show comes from seeing people go from being a nobody to being a big name.

But do we think that this video is going to attract any new, young viewers? Probably not. What it may do a better job at is attracting some of the older crowd who watched the show as recently as season 11, but tuned out last year due to Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj constantly fighting with each other. If they can bring back at least a good chunk of the people that were around two or three years ago, then this season would be considered a hit in a land of failing ratings. Having a warm, friendly judging panel with Keith Urban, Harry Connick Jr., and Jennifer Lopez can also go a long way if they offer up specific critiques on what contestants can do to improve themselves even if they are not right for this show.

What do you think about this promo, and do you agree that the show is at least heading in the right direction at the moment? Be sure to share your thoughts below! If you want to read more from this season’s panel of judges, click here to see what Urban said recently about working (and even “hanging out”) with the new team.

In case you are curious, the song in here is “On Our Way” by the Royal Concept.

Photo: Fox