The hit talent show American Idol is starting its 10th and perhaps most interesting season tomorrow, and you can watch it at 10PM on 8TV. Everyone is buzzing about what this new season will bring, especially with Simon Cowell gone. It’s his rather critical but truthful opinions that some say make American Idol what it is. The drastic changes began two years ago after the 7th season when the show’s creator and producer, Nigel Lythgoe, resigned. After that, the new producers began rolling out the changes, starting first with replacing judge Paula Abdul with Kara DioGuardi, then introducing a one-time only “save” option for the judges to use unanimously to keep a contestant who has been voted off on the show. Last year, for the 9th season, they also brought in talk show host Ellen DeGeneres. While some said that she wasn’t well versed enough in the music industry to be a judge, it’s her sense of humor that lightened the tense moments that compensated for that. The judging panel now consists of Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler, and Randy Jackson, the only person from the original panel.

In all of its 9 – and soon to be 10 – seasons, American Idol has produced some big names like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, David Archuleta, and Adam Lambert, who have all touched people’s lives. Their music consists of feel-good songs with great messages that will put anyone in a great mood. Music has always been a big part in people’s lives, and these few artists have influenced it in different ways. Kelly, Carrie, and David have all sung songs that helped people through tough times in their lives, while Adam shows us that we should be brave and not afraid to be who we are. They are great role-models to look up to in their own right.

David Archuleta may just have been part of the reason why a new, unexpected rule has been implemented this year. 15-year-olds can now audition, in addition to the previous 16 to 30-year-olds. Apart from American Idol, he has released 3 albums, the latest of which is titled The Other Side of Down, as well as a memoir, Chords of Strength. Other than these accomplishments in his 20 years, David also has a charming personality that lights up the room instantly when he walks in.  He participates in a lot of charities like Invisible Children, and Make A Wish amongst others, and was one of the first few celebrities to help Haiti just over a year ago. David is also one of the biggest inspirations in my life, mainly because of his positive attitude, and the hard work he puts into making sure every one of his songs contains the right message.

There is no doubt that the producers of the show are bringing a whole new American Idol to the table, and the fresh talent that will surely be displayed makes it a definite must-watch.