After weeks of speculation Paula Abdul finally agreed to be a judge on the first season of Simon Cowell’s The X Factor (U.S.) premiering later this year. She’ll be joining Cheryl Cole, Antonio “L.A” Reid (Seasoned record executive responsible for signing and promoting talents like Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber, Usher, Kanye West and many more) and of course the one and only Simon Cowell. Originating in the UK, the show has been responsible for discovering talents like Leona Lewis, Leon Jackson and Alexandra Burke. Unlike rival show American Idol, the judges of The X Factor are mentors to the final participants, there is no age limit and groups are also allowed to compete. Even before the auditions start The X Factor (U.S.) has already claimed to set a record with what Cowell claims is the “largest guaranteed prize in television history”; the winner of the show gets a recording contract worth $5 million with Syco Music. Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger & British TV presenter Steve Jones (predicted to be the next Ryan Seacrest) will be the hosts of the show. X Factor (India) is also scheduled to premiere this year on Sony Entertainment Television and will be judged by Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal & Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Though American Idol started off with low ratings in its 10th season it has managed to bounce back in recent weeks. With the exit of Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul, Idol veteran Randy Jackson has been joined by Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. While the judges have gotten flak for being “too nice” at times the audience has seemed to enjoy the season. Ryan Seacrest as always remains the charming host. The winner will win a record deal with Universal Music Group.
The Voice premiered a few weeks ago with judges/vocal coaches Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green, Adam Levine (Maroon 5 lead vocalist) and Blake Shelton. Inspired by The Voice of Holland the judges choose it’s contestants through a blind audition process after which they create teams they will be mentoring throughout the show. Hosted by Carson Daly and Alison Haislip, the winner will receive $100,000 and a record deal with Universal Republic.
While the competition amongst the musical reality shows heats up, what remains to be seen is which show produces the most talented singers. We’ll just have to wait and watch!