American Idol Season 9 is Finally Underway

The much anticipated start of Season 9 for American Idol has finally gotten underway. By the way things look after the first two shows, there are a couple of potential stars already in the mix, but it is far too early to make any predictions. They have several more cities to visit in getting the initial cast together before they can start to make the cuts to the contestants that will actually be featured in the competition.

If there is one thing that is noticeable though, it is the status that the judges seem to hold themselves in. Say what you want about Simon, but he has always been truthful and wants nothing more than to find some hidden talent that can be exposed to the world. While his criticisms are often harsh, they are consistent and honest. The rest of the crew is another story.

While some contestants are obviously there to have fun and could care less if the judge's laugh or have a good time with them, there are others that truly think they have a shot at making it and unfortunately have little or no talent. The absolutely childlike behavior of Randy and Kara did not go unnoticed as it often seemed that the show was more about them than it was the contestants.

Imagine being told your whole life by family and friends that you were talented and then giving your best effort only to be laughed at and ridiculed on national television. This is something that few people would wish on anyone. How about saying nice try, but it just isn't going to work out and send them on their way. The disappointment of not making it is often enough to make some of these contestants cry, the ridiculing is going a little overboard.

Another characteristic that is extremely bothersome, particularly with Kara, is the backhanded compliment that is often given out to people who are not exactly "appealing" to the eye. Her superficial nature comes out every time someone who does not look like a supermodel sings great. Two examples of this on Wednesday night were the young lady from Tennessee and the Police Officer.

Kara told both of them that they sounded a lot better than she had expected. For those that were keeping track, I hope you took note that this particular comment was never made to the "attractive" contestants that belted out pleasing songs. It is the Susan Boyle syndrome from last year and for some reason she assumes that because they are not perfect 10's, they cannot sing. You could actually see the hurt in both of their eyes when she made her remark. Someone needs to give all of them a lesson in humility because not one person on that panel is exactly setting the world on fire in terms of their "hotness."

Overall, it seemed like a very productive visit to two great cities and it would appear as though there are at least two clear cut favorites and possibly a handful more. All of this means nothing, though, as it is equivalent to the regular season in sports. Now they are all in the playoffs and there will be plenty more joining them. Once we get it down to the final cast, we will have a much better idea of the true contenders.