The American Idol judges have spoken, offering a fascinating look into their thoughts on audition song selections. Luke Bryan, overwhelmed by affection from his fellow judges, has been vocal about his preferences and opinions on the songs that grace the audition stage. Set against the backdrop of an evolving audition songbook, Bryan's insights reveal much about the music that resonates with this season's judges.
Bryan's hit single "One Margarita" continues to captivate audiences, while he maintains a deep appreciation for classics like "It's a Man's World." Lionel Richie, another stalwart on the judging panel, shares Bryan's sentiment regarding James Brown's timeless song. Richie has experienced mixed feelings about the song during auditions, noting that it often fails to capture its original essence.
"It didn't happen this time — ‘It's a Man's World,’ which I've heard for seven years. When they start singing ‘It's a Man's World,’ I go, ‘Don’t do it. It’s not gonna work,’” – Lionel Richie
However, Richie acknowledged that twice contestants managed to make the song their own, showcasing the unpredictable nature of auditions.
“Twice they did ‘It's a Man's World,’ and twice they made it their song,” – Lionel Richie
Bryan and Richie have also discussed their personal choices for audition songs. Bryan would opt for "Jesus, Take the Wheel," while Richie leans towards Bryan's catchy tune "Knockin' Boots." Bryan believes "Knockin' Boots" would be an excellent choice for aspiring singers aiming to make an impression.
The American Idol songbook has undergone significant changes this year, introducing fresh dynamics to the audition process. Contestants like Tate McRae and Chappell Roan are navigating this updated landscape, aiming to leave their mark with unique performances.
Richie's musical legacy remains influential as well. He penned "Sail On Down the Line," a song Bryan considers ideal for auditions, showcasing his admiration for Richie's work and the Commodores' music.
“I would have used, probably, sail on down the line,” – Luke Bryan
The judges also shared their struggles with certain songs. The popular tune "Watermelon Sugar" proved challenging for them, though Bryan expressed relief that Carrie Underwood never had to tackle it during her time on the show. Underwood herself recalled her initial hesitation about performing country music during auditions, believing it might not fit the show's format.
“I’m a country girl. I remember when I did audition, I was thinking like, ‘Oh, I better not sing country music, because this is not a country music show,’” – Carrie Underwood
As American Idol continues, the judges' insights offer a deeper understanding of how song selection can impact a contestant's journey.
