American Idol Top 12 on American Idol Extra

Host: "Do you see this as exclusively a singing competition?"
Sanjaya: "No."
Host: "Shocking."

It's a reality show in a singing competition format. The fact that the show is casted for "type" and not singing ability means that you will never get the "best singer" in America. The ones who think this is strictly a singing competition are delusional. This show is looking for a pop star -- someone like Britney Spears who has reasonable vocal ability but has tons of mass appeal, someone who will sell CDs and concert tickets, someone who will compel you to tune in to the TV every Tuesday and Wednesday night -- whether it be because of the singing or something else.

However, I have no problem with those who think this is a search for the best singer in America. It's part of the fun of the show. Once the media and the fans find out what this show has really been doing for the past couple of years, then it's going to lose its luster.

So yes, it is a singing competition. Give me Anna Netrebko!

(That's a thought: Next year, put a classical singer in the mix!)

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