TV Review: Don't Forget the Lyrics

Whether you karaoke with friends or by yourself, singing your favorite songs can be an absolute blast. What's even more fun, however, is watching someone else do it. Fox's "Don't Forget the Lyrics" is one such game show that revolves around this very concept. But, is the show really any good?

The basic premise of "Don't Forget the Lyrics" is to have contestants remember the lyrics to 10 classic songs from various categories, such as Country, Rolling Stones, 1980s, Rock, Divas, Rhythm and Blues, Girl Bands, Classic Rock, and Pop. To aid them on their music voyage, life lines called "backups" can be put into play to help save a contestant in doubt. If they can survive through all 10 songs, contestants will ultimately walk away with the grand prize of $1 million dollars.

The most enjoyable aspect of the "Don't Forget the Lyrics", however, is probably watching the very hilarious Wayne Brady host the musical game show. If you think you've heard of Wayne, then you might remember him from comical show "Whose Line is it Anyways" which was hosted by Drew Carey. But unlike "Whose Line is it Anyways", Brady definitely shines as he hosts "Don't Forget the Lyrics", and he actually adds to the entertainment value of the show as he dances and sings with the show's contestants.

Even though remembering the lyrics significantly influences a contestant's performance, a very important element is the "backups". Each contestant is given three "backups" which include "2 words", "3 lines", and "backup singers". In "2 words", contestants must first guess about what the correct lyrics are. If they are unsure, they may use this life line to reveal two correct words in the missing lyrics. In "3 lines", contestants are given three lines to choose between, but only one line is correct. In "backup singers", contestants bring along two family members or friends, but can only choose one individual to help them solve or remember the lyrics to a song. It kinda reminds you of another show doesn't it?

Although these aspects add to excitement of "Don't Forget the Lyrics", the most important element is the contestants. The first two episodes of the show really proves this point as a young female college student took the stage. Although her voice seemed to be quite off key, she belted it out to such classic songs as "Material Girl", "ABC", "Walk Like an Egyptian", "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction", "I Just Called to Say I Love You", and "How Do I Live". With her quirky personality and her previous karaoke experience, the young woman eventually walked away with $350,000! I just wonder if she actually bought that giant ant farm she was talking to Wayne about.

"Don't Forget the Lyrics" has several entertaining moments, but there are a few drawbacks and annoyances in the show. The major issue I found while watching the show was the lock in the lyrics moments. I understand that the contestants need to lock in their answers, but the wait before actually revealing the answers can easily become annoying, especially when the show goes to commercial break. I guess it's a good thing I have Tivo so I can just fast forward such annoyances. I also disliked the fact that the show only lasts 30 minutes. Considering the fact it takes about two episodes to show a really skilled contestant, you really don't get to see many contestants during the week.

With a mixture of unique personalities, classic songs, and hilarious singing, this show can really grow on you. Although the show does have a few issues like a majority of game shows, "Don't Forget the Lyrics" is a great show to watch for those couch potatoes out there. It is also a great show to watch on Wednesday and Thursday nights to help pass the time as you wait on the next season of "American Idol". Plus, who can resist singing along to their favorite songs?