J-Hud Gets the "Behind the Music" Treatment

Jennifer Hudson gets the “Behind the Music” treatment tomorrow night.

The show will chronicle Jennifer’s journey from “Idol” to the Oscars to her current life as an R&B princess/mother/Weight Watchers spokesperson.

“Behind the Music” airs Monday, June 28th at 10 p.m. on VH1…

Photo Credit: Dusan Reljin/VH1

Crystal Signs Her Deal

It was announced today that this season’s runner-up Crystal Bowersox has signed her deal with 19 Recordings.

Crystal has been signed to Jive Records, the home of Kris Allen, Alison Iraheta and Jordin Sparks.

“Idol” guru Simon Fuller said in the official press release, “Crystal is one of the most naturally gifted and talented singer songwriters to have ever come out of ‘Idol.’ The breadth of her talent is inspiring.”

Crystal’s debut CD is scheduled for release later this year.

Photo Credit: Patrick Ecclestein/FOX

Breaking News: “Idol” Lowers the Minimum Age to Audition

Just minutes ago, FOX sent out a press release giving more information about this summer’s “American Idol” auditions which begin next month. And there’s a very interesting piece of information in it…

For the first time ever 15-year-olds will be allowed to audition.

In the press release, Executive Producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz said, “A lot of young, talented people are now seeking careers and representation before they turn 16. Lowering the age limit allows us to tap into this talent pool.”

In other words, they’re looking for the next Justin Bieber. But personally, I don’t like this. We’ve seen way too many youngsters crack under the “Idol” pressure. I’ve often wondered if 16 is too young. In my opinion, 15 definitely is.

No doubt, Randy Jackson is already rehearsing the change of his patented line. “Dude! And just 15-years-old?”

The auditions kick off July 17th in Nashville. Here, from the release, are all the details…

Nashville AMERICAN IDOL Audition Information

WHO: Men and women 15-28 years old as of July 17, 2010, who are eligible to work in the U.S. Some restrictions apply – please visit americanidol.com for specific information.

WHEN: Saturday, July 17, 2010

WHERE: Bridgestone Arena
501 Broadway
Nashville, TN

HOW: Wristbands will be distributed from approximately 7:00 AM on Thursday, July 15 until approximately 8:00 AM on Saturday, July 17. Auditioners will not be permitted to camp out. Once auditioners obtain their wristbands, they will be asked to return to Bridgestone Arena by 5:00 AM on Saturday, July 17.

Audition information, including forms and requirements, will be available online at americanidol.com.

In case you’re wondering, these dates are for the cattle call auditions, not ones involving the judges. Those come later. But yes, I believe the announcement of Simon’s replacement is getting closer…

Tour Tickets are Discounted Again

Looking for a good example of how this season of “American Idol” didn’t measure up? Look no further than ticket sales for the Idols Live Tour…

Today, Live Nation is once again offering tickets for $20. And as of just a few minutes ago, there were still some pretty good seats available for the Columbus show in July.

The $20 tickets will be available until 9 a.m. tomorrow, June 16th…

Lee Signs His Deal

It was announced today that Lee DeWyze has signed with 19 Recordings/RCA.

In the official press release, Lee said, “Looking back on the last few months and all I gained from my experience on ‘American Idol,’ it is incredible to know that this is only the beginning for me. Being signed by 19 Entertainment/RCA Records is a dream come true. I know that by working with them, I have the support that will allow me to record the best possible album I can—an album I'm proud of and confident in.”

No word yet on which label Crystal Bowersox will be signed to, but my money is on RCA as well…

Photo Credit: Patrick Ecclestein/FOX

Clay Aiken CD Review: "Tried and True" and Perfectly Suited

I’ve kind of gained a reputation among some of my friends as the go-to-person when it comes to putting together music for certain events. I painstakingly try and match the music perfectly to the occasion and the audience in attendance.

But when the event calls for light and jazzy, I admit I struggle. It’s hard to find the right combination of subtle, yet not depressing or annoying.

Well now I’m happy to report that dilemma has been solved forever. Because the next time someone makes that request for their event, I will simply present them with a copy of Clay Aiken’s latest, “Tried and True.” It really is the perfect mix for that jazzy evening with a good combination of slow and fast songs.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed that Clay decided to do a CD of classics instead of a new pop CD. But when he’s this perfectly suited for these songs, it’s hard to argue. Clearly Clay understands his audience and they’re going to love this one. The CD has a big band sound throughout that suits Clay’s voice perfectly. And that voice is in fine form as Clay tackles “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “What Kind of Fool Am I?” (featuring David Sanborn), “It’s Only Make Believe,” “Misty,” “Mack the Knife,” “It’s Impossible,” “Unchained Melody,” “There’s a Kind of Hush” and “Moon River” (featuring Vince Gill). He also turns the Roy Orbison classic, “Crying,” into a gorgeous duet with Broadway star Linda Eder. Plus he takes on my dad’s favorite Elvis song, “Suspicious Minds.” And in case, you’re wondering, yes, I am already trying to turn it into my dad’s ringtone.

The deluxe edition of the CD includes “Who’s Sorry Now” and “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” plus a DVD with a live performance of “Build Me Up Buttercup” and other clips from Clay’s PBS special, which is scheduled to premiere later this month.

Now in the interest of full disclosure, I should probably confess that I would listen to Clay sing the phone book. So I’m probably not the most objective person when it comes to reviewing this CD. But I have to believe that even a non-Claymate would find something to like about this one.

“Tried and True” is now available in stores and online…

Photo Credit: Amazon.com

My Final Word on "Idol" Season Nine

So here, fresh from today's "Herald-Dispatch" is my final word on season nine of "American Idol."

I should warn you. It's a tad on the harsh side...