Blogamole › American Idol

By Michael Lopez

Throughout 11 wild seasons, Randy Jackson has remained an American Idol constant. And beyond that, he's a music legend, having played on albums by Journey, George Michael, and Mariah Carey. So clearly he knows his stuff and he's got some very interesting things to say about this latest version of Idol.

"I think we're in a great groove now," Jackson told us during an exclusive conference call. "Everyone makes such a fuss about the judges, but it really is the talent. If you don't have the talent…people might want to watch about five minutes then be like 'Okay.' So, I think it's really about that talent and what we get back from these kids."

Randy may have a point, but clearly the fans are entranced by the antics of his cohorts Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. Though they got a little bit of flack last year for being a bit wet behind the ears, Jackson assured us that there are big changes in store.

"[Jennfer, Steven, and I] talk about everything," he explained. "But this season you may see them be a bit more stern. They may surprise you. This Hollywood week was the toughest we've ever had on the kids."

And according to Randy, tough love is a necessity if you want to succeed in the music business. He went on to offer his philosophies on why criticism is important when prepping singers for a life behind the mic.

"This is a process that gets you ready for the future," he said. "You think Idol’s hard? Wait until you become an artist and you're trying to put a record out. After our show, you jump into the ring and duke it out with Madonna, with Rihanna, with Katie Perry. After this, you're setting yourself up for the competition of life and the competition never ends."

Speaking of competition, Jackson also made sure to speak out about Idol’s big rival in the ratings race, NBC's The Voice. Even though TV's other vocal talent show scored huge post-Super Bowl ratings, Randy isn't worried one bit.

"Listen, Idol is in its eleventh season," he proudly stated. "The Voice [had] huge numbers. I think any show after the Super Bowl will have huge numbers. They've got an original show and I think there's room for everyone out there."

Let's hope Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, and Cee-Lo Green feel the same way.

What's your favorite reality singing show? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags American Idol, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Exclusive Entrevistas, Jennifer Lopez, Música, Randy Jackson, Reality shows, Steven Tyler, Television, The Voice, Tr3s Exclusives

By Michael Lopez

Could we be going "two-for-two" this season on American Idol? As we all know, last year's big winner was part-Latino and judging by the talent we saw on Thursday, we could have another Hispanic champ in our midst.

The A.I. judges hit Texas last night and came face-to-face with some very talented singers. Christina Osorio didn't just have an incredible voice, she had an incredible story. The 28-year-old divorcee is currently raising three small kids and laying it all on the line for her big break.

Osorio's rendition of Adele's "One and Only" wowed the brass, particularly Steven Tyler, who went on to say,

"I love your high marks. When you go upstairs, your tenor is beautiful."

But she wasn't the only memorable Latino of the night. Ramiro Garcia proved to be the episode's most inspirational contender. The upbeat crooner delivered a powerhouse performance of "Amazing Grace," which was even more "amazing" when you consider that he was born without ears.

Hopefully we'll be seeing a lot of Latino talent to come in the next few weeks!

Who's been your favorite Idol contender so far? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Amazing Grace, American Idol, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Hot Stuff, Kristine Osario, Música, One and Only, Ramiro Garcia, Television

By Michael Lopez

After months of hype (and a breakup in between), Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony's ¡Q’Viva! series is finally set to debut this weekend. We happened to catch a sneak peek of the premiere episode, which shows a very interesting side to the newly divorced power couple.

In all honesty, the ¡Q’Viva! format does play a lot like Jennifer's "other" reality competition show. And if you ask us, it's kind of strange to premiere both series so close to each other. Could it be giving the TV viewing audience a little too much J.Lo on a weekly basis?

One thing's for sure. With Lopez, what you see is what you get. Jennifer actually comes off quite the same on ¡Q’Viva! as she does on Idol. She's the "sweet" judge, the big-hearted talent scout who clearly hates giving out bad news.

Anthony, on the other hand, is a little more rough around the edges and has some stern moments during the premiere. Sometimes he gives the thumbs up and other times he's crushing karaoke dreams.

But of course, what the audience really wants to see is how well these two interact together. Now keep in mind, ¡Q’Viva! was shot before the Casper Smarts and Shannon de Limas entered the picture.

With the split still pretty fresh, both Jennifer and Marc come off professional and genuinely sweet with each other. There are even a few brief mentions of their twins, Max and Emme.

And the producers made a smart decision by having them address their public breakup almost immediately (vs. glossing over it like it never happened). Clearly part of the season's subplot will include how these two former lovers learn to work hand-in-hand to find talented Latinos.

Which of course brings us back to the "substance" of the show, the talent. In the first episode we meet quite an interesting array of characters. There are Brazilian fighter dancers, Chilean guitar masters, and a pair of Central American twin sisters who have some funny (and flirty) moments with El Cantante.

Superstar choreographer Jamie King is featured as a central figure too, adding input on a few dancing contestants from Argentina. And with his history teaching moves to Ricky Martin, Madonna, and Britney Spears, we're sure he'll add a lively touch to the show.

That being said, ¡Q’Viva! has the potential to turn into quite an interesting reality experiment. But, as we know with all talent competition shows, the true fun doesn't begin until the final eliminations.

Are you looking forward to ¡Q’Viva!? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags American Idol, ¡Q’Viva!, ¡Q’Viva! The Chosen, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Celebrities, Celebrity Divorce, Jamie King, Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, Música, Reality shows, Television

By Michael Lopez

It's hard to believe that we're about to launch another year of American Idol. It seems like just yesterday when Scotty McCreery charmed the nation with his country crooning, but now the hunt is on to find another superstar. And all of this season's key talent are extremely excited to kick it all off.

"I think that Idol still is the best TV show of its kind anywhere," Judge Randy Jackson told us at an exclusive press conference. "We're the original, we kind of invented this whole game that everybody's now copying."

Indeed, at the A.I. press event, The Voice happened to come up several times. Not that the cast let that "other" singing show phase them. In fact, Ryan Seacrest threw out a few fun jabs at their NBC rivals.

"We never sit down before we do our show and think, 'what are the other guys doing?" Seacrest confidently said.

Jackson added,

"It's like second-chance theater over there."

And as much as NBC would like to hype Xtina and company's big February return, their season one champ seemed to fade away far quicker than anyone A.I. has produced.

And at Idol, the eyes will be focused much more on the shot callers than the contestants. Especially with A-listers like Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler in the judges' seats.

Discussing her approach to critiquing this season, J.Lo said,

"We're going to try to give them advice as we would want advice given to us. At the end of the day, you never know what's going to happen."

Steven seemed to relish his new role too, though he admitted that his Aerosmith bandmates had a hard time accepting it at first.

"[The Idol thing] wasn't really accepted at first by my bandmates," he said. "But now things are good and Aerosmith sales jumped up significantly since I joined."

All three judges assured the media that the same loose style will remain intact when they step in front of the camera Wednesday night.

"I love how our personalities are so different," Lopez explained. "We each have a different sense of style, but we all have fun with it! Hopefully the audience has been able to get to know us better now. To know us for who we really are."

You can get to know Jennifer, Ryan, Randy, and Steven all over again when American Idol cranks out season 11, tonight on Fox.

Are you excited about Idol's new season? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags American Idol, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Exclusive Entrevistas, Jennifer Lopez, Música, Randy Jackson, Ryan Seacrest, Steven Tyler, Television, The Voice, Tr3s Exclusives

By Michael Lopez

This week, all eyes will be on American Idol. The reality phenom is coming back for its 11th season this Wednesday and we know one famous alum who'll most certainly be tuning in. Stefano Langone proved to be a 2011 fave and since placing seventh last year, his career has been on fire. The 22-year-old crooner recently spoke to us about his experiences on the show and what fans can expect on his upcoming debut album.

"It's been a lot of work since Idol," Stefano told us. "I'm really proud about what I'm doing in the studio right now."

Interestingly, last week news broke that Langone had been signed to Hollywood Records. One of the hottest labels for young talent, Hollywood’s clientele includes Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Miley Cyrus, and more. Though Stefano was tight-lipped on whether he'd be collaborating with any of his famous label-mates, he did divulge some secrets from the studio.

"We've already found a very cool first single," Langone said. "It's called 'I'm On A Roll.' I think it's going to be a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to putting out music that's original and different from what I sang on the show."

Stefano went on to say that he was extremely proud of his particular Idol season and still keeps in touch with several of last year's contestants. He also heaped praise on that famous judge who saved him from an early elimination with her "wild card."

"J.Lo always had my back," Langone explained. "I felt a bit like an underdog on the show. In a way, I still feel like an underdog, but it's what gives me my edge."

And as far as the new season is concerned, Stefano did confirm that he will be watching (whenever he's not too tied up in the studio). He also told us how he's hoping to record something in "Spanglish" to honor his half-Mexican heritage.

"I've received a lot of love from the Latin community," he went on to say. "I'd love to reach out to those fans with a song that's half English and half Spanish. Something really original."

Hopefully we won't have too long to hear that happen. Langone's debut album should be out later this year and, as he told us, there’s a good chance he'll be popping back up on Idol for a surprise appearance.

"Idol has been a great opportunity and I’m definitely going to continue to capitalize on it. I'm pretty sure I'll be performing on the show later this season."

You can catch the return of American Idol this Wednesday on Fox.

Are you looking forward to the new season of American Idol? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags American Idol, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Exclusive Entrevistas, Hollywood Records, I'm On A Roll, Jennifer Lopez, Música, Stefano Langone, Television, Tr3s Exclusives

By Michael Lopez

The "People" have spoken and it seems they love Demi Lovato. The part-Mexican starlet proved to be the belle of the ball at last night's People's Choice Awards, taking home Best Pop Artist and delivering a powerhouse performance of "Give Your Heart A Break."

But Lovato wasn't the only one the crowds went nuts for. Robert Pattinson, Lea Michelle, and Emma Stone made a major mark as well.

In the movie department, the Choice was clearly Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2. The final Hogwarts installment nabbed Favorite Movie, Favorite Action Movie, and Favorite Ensemble Cast. Johnny Depp (who skipped the ceremony) made a big mark as well, earning Favorite Action Movie Star and Favorite Animated Movie Voice for Rango.

Other winners from the big screen included Ryan Reynolds for his work in Green Lantern and Hugh Jackman for Real Steel. The box office smash Bridesmaids earned the title of Favorite Comedy Movie and Morgan Freeman took home Favorite Movie Icon.

On the TV side of things, How I Met Your Mother got plenty love, first for Favorite Comedy and then for Favorite Actor (which went to Neil Patrick Harris).

Betty White was on hand to accept a Favorite Cable TV Comedy award for her show Hot In Cleveland and Jimmy Fallon earned the title of Favorite Late Night TV Host.

In the reality realm, American Idol beat out The Voice for Favorite TV Competition Show. And not surprisingly, Kim Kardashian earned the title of Favorite TV Celebreality Star (though some in the crowd weren't too happy about that).

In the world of music, Katy Perry scored four awards for Favorite Song ("E.T."), Favorite Video, Favorite Female Artist, and Favorite Tour Headliner. That would have been quite an accomplishment for the pop songstress…if she decided to show. But seeing how Katy’s going through a painful divorce, she chose to bail on the festivities.

Tr3s fave Bruno Mars earned the title of Favorite Male Artist. And though he didn't get up on the stage, he let his fans know that was eternally grateful for the honor.

"I'm currently walking down the street screaming "I am an ultimate male"!! Thank you at @peopleschoice and to those that voted! #hooligans" he tweeted.

And, as per usual, there was plenty of high fashion in effect last night too. Miley Cyrus wowed the crowd with a chique revealing white dress. Vanessa Hudgens chose the glam route, bedazzling herself in a gold and black ensemble. And hostess Kaley Cuoco strutted very elegantly across the red carpet in a shimmering cream-colored gown.

What did you think of this year’s People's Choice Awards? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags American Idol, Award Shows, Betty White, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Bruno Mars, Celebrities, Demi Lovato, Fashion Face-Off, Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows, Hot Stuff, How I Met Your Mother, Hugh Jackman, Jimmy Fallon, johnny depp, Kaley Cuoco, Katy Perry, Kim Kardashian, Música, Miley Cyrus, Morgan Freeman, Movies & CineMás, Neil Patrick Harris, People’s Choice Awards, Ryan Reynolds, Style, Television, Vanessa Hudgens

By Michael Lopez

It seems Adam Lambert got himself entangled in some overseas mayhem yesterday. Apparently the American Idol star was arrested in Finland after engaging in a public brawl with his boyfriend outside of a gay club.

Sauli Koskinen and Adam were all smiles while posing together at this year's American Music Awards. But it seems the good feelings didn’t last, with witnesses saying the two came out of the Finnish club swinging!

Both Koskinen and Lambert were held in jail overnight and ultimately released on Thursday morning. It is still unclear exactly how stiff the charges will be, or if there will be any at all.

And interestingly, it seems the two seemed to have already buried the hatchet. Sauli posted a telling blog after the incident, confirming that the he and Adam are still very much a couple.

"Publicity is not easy, but also celebrities are just human," he wrote. "Love is not easy either, but it lasts forever!"

Do you think the cops overreacted to Adam and Sauli's fight? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Adam Lambert, American Idol, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Celebrity Couples, Chisme, popnews, Sauli Koskinen

By Michael Lopez

Anyone expecting a followup to The Other Side of Down may now have to wait a while. It seems American Idol alum, David Archuleta, will be putting his music career on hold for the next two years to become a Mormon missionary.

David made the emotional announcement during a concert in Utah last night. Pushing through tears and a wave of emotions, Archie told the crowd that he was answering a "higher calling."

"It's not because somebody told me that I was supposed to do it," he explained on stage. "And it's not because I no longer want to do music anymore, but it's because it's the feeling that I felt that I need to do next in my life."

So far, it's unclear if David will serve the church here in the states or do missionary work overseas. But you've got to admire his devotion to his faith. And we're sure the experience will make for some very interesting lyrics when he returns to the studio in 2014.

Do you admire David’s devotion to the Mormon church? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Agentes De Cambio, American Idol, Blogger: Michael Lopez, David Archuleta, Música, Mormonism, Religion

By Larry Yepez Jr.

Britney Spears has an idol. Which Idol?  No...not  American Idol. Brit let the world know about her admiration for the Hot Nuyorican Powerhouse by saying that she loves Jennifer Lopez for her youthful beauty. Britney, who is about to turn 30, said in an interview with Now magazine that she hopes to be as beautiful as JLo when she turns 42.

The 29-year-old claimed that she's always been a huge fan of the American Idol judge, especially because of the way she has managed to keep herself in great shape after having twins.

JLo looks more amazing than ever and Britney really admires and respects that. I think we all do, there is no going around it: JLo is definitely a stunning powerhouse!

Britney also revealed that she shares beauty tips with her mother Lynne. One of her mom's beauty secrets is making sure she gets plenty of rest and lots of water. Does JLo nap half of the day and walk around with a portable water fountain? Not really, so although these are healthy advice tips, there has to be more to the secret of the JLo Glow!

Do you think Britney will be as hot as JLo when she's in her 40's?

Tags American Idol, Blogger: Larry Yepez Jr, Britney Spears, idol, J.LO, Jennifer Lopez

By Vanessa Beatriz Soto

If the tabloids are right, there might just be a new leading backup man in Jennifer Lopez's life.

The recently separated Multitasker from the Block has had an unarguably interesting and amusing year, between the split with Marc Anthony, filming of features including "Parker," and "What To Expect When You're Expecting," emotional performances at casinos, appearing on the cover of Vanity Fair, romance rumors with searingly dull Bradley Cooper and cute but inadvisable William Levy, not to mention launching an online digital video series version of teen gossip mag Tiger Beat with some serious digital types, and attaching her name to a reality TV series about tow trucks.

Now she's heating up the inter-tubes with word that she's got her hands on yet another backup dancer (In the words of a toddler I know and love: "AGAIN?"), relatively unknown 24 year-old Casper Smart. (Real name? BAH! I will eat my hat.)

So what gives?

Smart, who claims to be 5'8" and 160 lbs on his website, has also made appearances on the "This is It" World Tour, on "Glee", and in Honey 2 and "Step Up 3D". Impressive. I also hear he's a dancer at Los Angeles' super-swanky English-manor-house-themed Boulevard Club. For me, this conjures delightful images of the Bronx Bombshell selecting him from among the shirtless go-go boys. Maybe she called him to her private room... "You will be my temporary boo, little man. Follow." (Cut to her people doing rush background checks.)

Okay no, so seriously, how the pair actually got to talking is anyone's guess, and what they have in common can probably be summed up by the word "abs." On the other hand it could be that itty bitty wiry guys just do it for JLo. Whatever. The pint-size dancing duo officially met at work, when the Los Angeles, California-based Smart krumped, popped and locked in JLo's wake during live shows, including "American Idol.

But it seems the notoriously romantic star is not quite ready for her next Big Romance. "An insider says their relationship is "nothing serious." says US Weekly's secret source, in an article "Jennifer Lopez Dating Sexy Dancer Casper Smart: Cris Judd 2.0?" (Notice it's not called "JLo Dating Smart Dancer Casper Sexy". Just sayin'...):

So is Jenny saving all her love for Bradley Cooper? Maybe, maybe not:

Lopez "liked the thrill and the fact that Bradley has been pursuing her," but a source says she "has really been trying to concentrate on her kids and work. But Bradley has been especially eager."

We have another theory for you. Maybe JLo's having a little fun with Casper to make herself look better to Cooper? TMZ has some cutie-pie pictures of the two this summer in the Ukraine, and the following suggestive little note:

According to our sources, Lopez and Smart spent the first few months as "just friends" -- flirting, talking and just hanging out -- but lately they've been touchy-feely in front of JLo's other dancers.

Yoo hoo, Bradley - are you watching? We are!

Tags American Idol, blogger: Vanessa Beatriz Soto, Bradley Cooper, Casper Smart, Celebrities, Chisme, glee, Jennifer Lopez, Mark Anthony, Parker, Tiger Beat, What to Expect When You're Expecting, William Levy