American Idol fever begins

MANILA, Philippines –  American Idol fever begins on Jan. 20 as the biggest talent show in the world returns to Q-11 with not one, but two new judges. They are Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith.

Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller said, “Our 10th season begins with a completely invigorated panel of judges with Jennifer and Steven joining Randy (Jackson). This is combined with the world’s most successful and brilliant music executive Jimmy Iovine (chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records) becoming the contestants’ special mentor.”

J. Lo revealed to Los Angeles Times that she has been quite impressed with some of the hopefuls she met during auditions. That’s because some of the hopefuls were reportedly asked to sing several songs, usually from different genres.

“We’ve put a bunch of people through  probably more than they have in the past. We have about 15 to 20 real superstars. People who could be recording artists,” said Lopez. Tyler, on the other hand, said they, the judges “switch on being brutal” during the auditions.

 For the last round of call backs before the show heads to Hollywood, more than 10,000 people trooped to Bradley Center in downtown Milwaukee, the Associated Press reported.

More surprises and shockers are ahead. What are the positive changes in the show? What outfits will J. Lo  the woman who wore the green Versace dress with the infamous plunging neckline  have on Idol? Will the judges get along? And, of course, will another Fil-Am make it to the finals?

AI Season 10 premieres on Jan. 20 and 21, 6 p.m. via satellite (with same day replays).