Eight that Would Be Great "American Idol" Mentors

A good season of "American Idol" should feature mentors from a variety of musical backgrounds and genres. These mentors should have the talent and experience that can help shape young musicians. This list of eight musicians would give "American Idol" contestants a lot of knowledge about the music business. The contestants would be lucky if any of this talent rubbed off on them.

Julie Andrews - Andrews is one of the most talented entertainers on the face of the planet. She gives excellent vocal performances in classic musicals like "The Sound of Music" and "Mary Poppins." Andrews could give the "American Idol" contestants several lessons on singing and being classy.

Brian Setzer - Setzer is best known for songs like "Rock This Town" and "Stray Cat Strut." He has helped to keep rockabilly and big band music alive. Setzer could mentor the "American Idol" contestants on singing these styles of music. This kind of music would also provide a fun night of performances from the contestants.

Garth Brooks - Brooks is one of the most successful country music stars of all time. Songs like "The Dance" and "Friends in Low Places" are modern classics in the genre. It would be interesting to hear Brooks' advice for the "American Idol" contestants on singing country music. Brooks is also an incredible performer on stage so he could likely give them some tips on showmanship.

Alanis Morissette - Morissette's rock album "Jagged Little Pill" was a phenomenon when it came out in 1995. She has a unique voice and style that could add some versatility to the "American Idol" contestants' performances. Morissette has gone from a teenager who sang dance-pop songs to a major player in rock music. In addition to being a singer, she is also a songwriter, record producer and actress. She should be able to give "American Idol" contestants a lot of advice on singing and on following the right path in their careers.

Rick Springfield - Springfield would be the perfect choice to be a mentor and guest judge when "American Idol" has an 80s themed week. Springfield had huge hits in the 80s with songs like "Jessie's Girl" and "Love Somebody." He could give the "American Idol" contestants a lot of insight on singing the music of this era. Springfield is also fantastic at connecting with his fans in concert. The veteran rocker could give a lot of advice on developing a fan base and keeping it.

Willie Nelson - Nelson is a true country music legend. He has many well-known country tunes such as "On the Road Again" And "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain." Nelson could teach "American Idol" contestants about the roots of country music and about longevity in the music business.

Ozzy Osbourne - Watching Osbourne mentor "American Idol" contestants would be truly entertaining. The contestants might have a difficult time figuring out what he is saying, but he could definitely teach them what it means to rock audiences.

Kelly Clarkson - Whenever "American Idol" wraps up its final season, Clarkson should be the final mentor. She was the first winner of the show and has had a great career with songs like "Since U Been Gone" and "Because of You." She could give the "American Idol" contestants insight on what life is like after the show. Having Clarkson as the final mentor and guest judge would bring the show full circle.