Quote Originally Posted by Stillsky
As far as professionalism...perhaps where music marketing is concerned, that would be true. Of course they're going to sell records! Consider what they're judging. If they were judging based solely on someone's musical talent, the show wouldn't be a hit at all and there'd be no money to make. That's not what they judge. They are professionals at making money through music, and the only music that makes the money is what you already listen to on the radio. During the auditions, they pick the people that have sounds similar to the already-popular singers because they know that it will make money. This is how record labels think and operate. Simon has stated plenty of times in interviews that appearance and look play a large role in how he makes his mind up in the auditions. It's trendy marketing, and trends sell huge. If you have a certain trendy look about you and half a voice, you're a shoe-in.
I don't disagree with you much here. I am not at all trying to defend the integrity of the show or that of the music industry for that matter. I see the show for what is and can enjoy it despite my distaste for the pop music machine. Don't forget however that the winner of the 2003 American Idol was a gospel singer!

American Idol is good at what it does, which is bring entertainment into homes, give a few kids a shot at stardom, and make a lot of money. And you have to admit that in that, it is brilliant!