Real Life + AI

I recently read a piece of news which I found hysterical. Clay Aiken wrote a raving blog about American Idol and how it has lost its direction. He stated it has become a popularity contest and is no longer an unbiased forum for the public to make their choice. After some background research into his views I discovered that Aiken was clamoring to do a duet with Adam Lambert even though his blog called Lambert "slightly frightening". The former Idol made an appearance on the Idol set and was promptly escorted off the premises. While I do applaud his description of Lambert's interpretation of "Ring of Fire", "at that moment, I [also] thought my ears would bleed", let's be honest the days of Clay Mania have long passed. I completely respect Clay as an artist. His voice is rich and quite enjoyable, unfortunately he has managed to lose nearly all of my once infinite respect for his personhood. What I don't understand is Aiken's argument that American Idol was founded on the discovery of America's hidden talent. Yet, Kris Allen is a prime example of that, but this was the year Clay Aiken decided to use his celebrity influence on the industry. Seriously, Adam Lambert owned the boots he wore during his performance with KISS long before he was dreaming of being an Idol. Does that concern anyone else? Personally, I believe the public deserves more credit. We know enough to promote decent musicianship to Idol fame, thank you very much Mr. Aiken.
If anything shows the series' turn from talent to looks its the constant appearance of "bikini girl". Of course she got a spot in the finale. There really aren't enough scantily clad women on television. This lustful move is only justified by judge Kara Diaguardio's flash of her equally perfect, slightly pale, bikini figure.
Last but not least as a transferring college student I am learning more and more about the university I have chosen to call home. I am pleased to say that Appalachian State University has a student run record label. Music is not completely lost in the small towns of America. These are the artists and producers that will save us from the cliche productions we currently know as hit songs.