American Idol is strangely intriguing
Millions of viewers in the United States give up their evenings to watch one show in the spring season. That show is American Idol. Everybody has seen it and everybody remembers at least one performer that really impressed them. I myself would watch the show with my obsessed parents on occasion. My favorite part is the beginning episodes, which you get to see Simon destroy any sliver of confidence some really awful singers had. I enjoyed it, my parents sure as hell enjoy it, and it seems like the rest of my great nation is right there with us.
American Idol has been on television for nine seasons and it doesn’t seem as if they are going to drop it anytime soon. The show is currently the number one show on television and has been in the top three for the past five years. My question is why is this though? We can hear many talented people sing just by turning on the closest radio. We can watch more important things, like a viscous alligator jumping out of the water and eating a gazelle. American Idol has been the answer to what television audiences like, im not saying that it is a good show, but it is the affect of good timing and differential formatting.
Americans have grown attached to their television sets in the past couple decades, sort of like a family member. The most enjoyable part of having a family member is to be able to interact with it. The idea of American Idol is that regular people’s career fates, actually rely on us. We can be the Supreme Court of the music industry. I found myself actually casting a vote for Micheal Johns after he sang Bohemian Rhapsody.
Amercian Idol is a reality show at its greatest. It makes the consumer part of the show and creates a sense of loyalty. Loyalty is what brings the show consistent ratings. Producers love the show because of the contracts and fans love the show because they feel a sense of closeness. Everybody wins.
references
Jenkins, Henry. “Buying into American Idol.” Print.
“American Idol History.” Buddy TV. Web. 9 Nov. 2009. <http://www.buddytv.com/american-idol.aspx>
