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January 21, 2005
'What's Wrong with American Idol?' Revisited
It's back. Season four of the hugely popular "reality" show is once again setting viewership records. I admit it's great fun to watch, but what worries me is the misguided impression the show gives the public (including aspiring artists) about the modern "realities" of pursuing a music career.
Last spring, midway through season three, I launched a personal campaign to set the record straight. Next week I will post an updated "What's Wrong with American Idol?" manifesto. In the meantime, you might enjoy hearing this radio interview I did last year with Bill Reker on KMOX (1120 AM) in St. Louis.
Check back next week for my list of American Idol myths.
Last spring, midway through season three, I launched a personal campaign to set the record straight. Next week I will post an updated "What's Wrong with American Idol?" manifesto. In the meantime, you might enjoy hearing this radio interview I did last year with Bill Reker on KMOX (1120 AM) in St. Louis.
Check back next week for my list of American Idol myths.
posted by Bob Baker @ 10:27 AM
4 comments
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Bob Baker is an author, indie musician and former music magazine editor dedicated to showing musicians of all kinds how to get exposure, connect with fans, sell more CDs, and increase their incomes.
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I think mainly, the biggest problem with Idol is the misconception that industry people will 'make' you a star. That's problem number one. They are leading people on to believe that someone else will take responsibility for your own career. Instead of waiting around, hoping someone will 'make' you a star, why not take your future into your own hands, empower yourself, educate yourself, and make yourself?
Jen -- my friend Scott Andrew just posted his take on this subject. I especially like the A&R guy's quote on not needing the music industry's permission to have a career.
HH
Amen to that Bob. I have people telling me all the time that I should try to get on that show. I tell them I don't need that kind of hassle. For one I'm a rock singer who writes my own songs. A lot of people don't understand the difference between performers that write and those that do covers. Even on a local level. Idol masquerades as a finding new artists, when it's only finding new stylists to do other people's songs.
Plus I read an article by an entertainment lawyer recently who said that one of the terms in the performers' contracts state that any footage or recordings, public or private, good or bad, can be made of them at any time for the rest of their lives, and they have no say over its use. The lawyer advised his clients not to sign, but what are you to do if you are desperately seeking fame and this is the biggest juggernaut to hit town in 50 years?
TH