Celebuzz &#187; American Idol

“‘Home’ is probably the best Idol winner’s song in years,” she said. “It sounds relevant in an iPhone commercial kind of way. As of Tuesday, I’m about twice as optimistic [about his chances for success].”

Ironically, Laura Prudom, who recaps Idol for The Huffington Post, says that being grouped in with bands like Mumford & Sons couple become a major hurdle for Phillip as he kick-starts his music career in the coming months.

Rihanna Performs on 'American Idol'

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“The industry already has Mumford & Sons, Arcade Fire and Fleet Foxes, so why, exactly, does it need Phillip Phillips?” she said. “I suspect that making himself sound distinctive in an overcrowded male marketplace will be Phillip’s biggest post-Idol challenge, largely dependent on the quality of the songs he’s offered by the label, and his ability to assert his independence with people like Jimmy Iovine trying to steer him in the ‘right’ direction.”

“He stayed admirably focused on his identity as an artist this season, repeatedly refusing to let Tommy Hilfiger give him an embarrassing image makeover and seeming to find the endless promotional tie-ins just as laughable as we all did,” Prudom added. “If he maintains that sense of self, I think he has the potential to carve out a real niche for himself.”

With his victory on Wednesday, Phillip became the fifth-straight male contestant to win American Idol, joining the ranks of other guitar-playing guys like Scotty McCreery, Lee DeWyze, Kris Allen and David Cook. It’s a far cry from the olden days of Idol, which launched uber-successful careers for many female contestants, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Fantasia Barrino.

Kelly Clarkson Films 'Dark Side' Music Video

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While the success of Phillip’s career could go either way, Montgomery, Yoshida and Prudom all agreed that the recent male dominance on Idol could have a negative effect on the show itself — which has been declining steadily in the ratings in the last couple of years — as it heads into season 12.

“Thanks to the folks who actually vote for this show, American Idol has become completely antithetical to the current state of pop music,” said Montgomery, who has written extensively on the topic over at MTV. “You just don’t see male solo artists dominating the charts these days — though, to be fair, Gotye is certainly making headwinds.”

Katy Perry Performs 'Part of Me' on 'American idol'

“At this point, thanks to five-straight years of white guys with guitars winning, it’s pretty easy to say that the show has become sadly predictable, which probably hurts it more than anything else,” he added.

“Unless Phillip reaches the kind of universal success of a Kelly or a Carrie, the WGWG thing has officially become a joke that is impossible to ignore,” said Yoshida. “I remember people making similar comments when Scotty McCreery won last year, but nothing approaching the derision this time around.”

Jennifer Lopez's 'american Idol' Fashions

“I think the audience will continue to lose interest as long as the outcome remains totally predictable. People don’t want to invest in shows that are only going to frustrate them in the end, and that’s as true of reality series as it is of primetime dramas,” said Prudom.

At this point, does a female contestant even stand a chance at winning?

“I’ll never say never, but it’s looking like it’ll be increasingly difficult for a female to ever win Idol again, or at least one that has a shot at being like Rihanna, Beyonce, Katy Perry, Adele or Lady Gaga,” said Montgomery. “None of them would ever win Idol, and given that they’re the biggest stars on the planet, that doesn’t exactly bode well for the show’s future — or its present, really.”

When Idol first premiered in the summer of 2002, it was a novelty of sorts; the first popular singing competition to hit primetime network television since Star Search. In 10 years, however, we’ve seen the birth of multiple reality-competition series; on TV today, viewers can choose between everything from The Voice, to The X Factor, which features former Idol judge Simon Cowell, to the latest incarnation, ABC’s Duets.

According to our expects, Idol’s purported predictability will only hurt the aging show as more and more newbie products try to win the illustrious ratings’ battle.

“As much as the judges and producers snark about it, The Voice has obviously taken a fair chunk out of [Idol's] viewership,” said Prudom. “With The X Factor and Duets also vying for attention, you’ve got to expect a fair amount of viewer fatigue. Haven’t we reached the point of oversaturation with singing competitions yet? At some point, the well of talent will have to run dry.”

Britney Spears, Kelly Clarkson and the Newest Reality show judges

Montgomery agrees, adding that The Voice seems to have beat Idol — a show that dominated the ratings for an unprecedented amount of years — at its own game.

“It’s a hip show, with contemporary judges; it even created an actual hit, ‘Moves Like Jagger.’ Idol just seems old and sort of obsolete now … I think audiences will continue to leave the show.”

“Though, c’mon, it still KILLS in the ratings!” he said.

Britney Spears & Demi Lovato at First 'x factor' auditions

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Indeed, while Idol did have its lowest-rated season finale ever on Wednesday, with 21.5 million tuning in, it’s still a much higher number than most shows can produce on television today; last year’s winner, Scotty McCreery, also became the first platinum-selling winner the show has seen in years — an encouraging sign for Phillip, whose single ‘Home’ currently sits atop the iTunes singles charts.

Could it be that Idol, a show that was famously known for its brutal honesty, especially from Cowell, has simply become too nice in its later years? According to Yoshida, the answer is “yes.”

“Get some judges in there who can actually do their jobs and foster some kind of evolution among the finalists,” she said, criticizing the two-season-long panel of Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and original Idol judge Randy Jackson. “Then we might once again have a show that is engaging and interesting and worth the three hours a week.

What do you think? Will Phillip be successful after Idol? And will the show ever reclaim its glory? Sound off in the comments, below!

‘American Idol’ Winner Phillip Phillips To Undergo Urgent Kidney Surgery

Gabrielle Chung — Thu, 24 May 2012 20:01:43 +0000

He may have came out on top during Wednesday’s American Idol season finale, but Phillip Phillips is going under the knife for an urgent kidney surgery in the upcoming week.

The 21-year-old will undergo a procedure to reconstruct his kidney following a build up of kidney stones in his system. According to TMZ, the condition had worsened during the competition but the Georgia-native refused treatment until after his run.

But this is not the first time Phillips will be going into surgery for his kidney problem…

Phillips’ father, also named Phillip Phillips, said his son has already underwent eight operation since auditioning for Idol.

“He’s been doing [well], but it’s just grueling hours and it’s just amazing what he’s done through the journey,” the singer’s dad told People at the show’s after party. “Eight operations since we started American Idol … He’s hitting 50 percent, but he’s still up there swinging away.”

“The recovery’s probably two to four weeks,” the elder Phillips added. “He’s healthy, he’s good. His kidneys are good. I can’t wait for America and the whole world to see him [after his surgery], because he’s a big cut-up. He’s going to have some fun.”

Young Phillips, who took home the title of Idol‘s season 11 winner this week, is said to make a full recovery in time for the show’s annual live tour after following the operation.

Celebrity Engagement Rings: Guess Who? (PHOTOS)

Amber James — Thu, 24 May 2012 15:36:18 +0000

One singer got the surprise of her life on Wednesday night when her beau proposed in front of millions of people.

This former American Idol contestant is flaunting her new engagement ring, which is an 18-karat yellow gold, platinum and diamond David Webb ring. The bling has a 1-carat fancy yellow center stone and two side diamonds weighing .2 carats.

Can you guess who is donning this new diamond sparkler?

Diana DeGarmo!

She and Ace Young — Idol alumni — got engaged during the show’s big finale.

Click through the gallery above to play Celebuzz’s fun “Guess The Celebrity Engagement Ring” game.

'American Idols' %u2013 Before They Were Stars

During the Idol finale, Young got down on one knee, saying: “We have conquered Broadway together. We have created our new music together. We have an amazing group of people around us. And with the help of David Webb jewelry I have a way to make this last forever. Are you ready?”

“I love you to death. You’re my best friend. I want to make this last forever and I will do anything in my power to have the most … amazing life together if you will have me. Diana Nicole DeGarmo, will you marry me?“

After saying yes, a tearful DeGarmo said, “I’m so speechless right now. Wow, babe, you picked a good one!”

The couple, who’ve been together for two years, met in the spring of 2010 when they starred on the Broadway revival Hair.

Reader’s Respond: Who Should Become a Judge on ‘American Idol’? (PHOTOS)

Amber James — Thu, 24 May 2012 14:52:44 +0000

With reports swirling that discarded X Factor judge Cheryl Cole is being eyed for American Idol, our loyal Celebuzz readers took to our Facebook and Twitter to nominate the celebrities they’d like to see on the judges’ panel.

So who made the cut? Pop singers Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey and Miley Cyrus — just to name a few.

Click through the gallery above to see all of the readers’ picks — and join in the conversation by telling us who you’d like see join Idol.

Jennifer Lopez: Highest Paid Celebrity Judges

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Earlier this week, the NY Post reported that the British singer was approached by AI executives to see if she’d be interested in joining Idol – either alongside Jennifer Lopez or as a replacement if J.Lo leaves.

Cole appeared in the first few episodes of X Factor before being dumped by Simon Cowell. She was criticized for lacking stage presence and for her thick English accent, sources said.

Rihanna Gives Risque Performance on ‘Idol,’ Adds to Her Slew of Sexy Styles (PHOTOS/VIDEO)

Jackie Willis — Thu, 24 May 2012 14:30:56 +0000

American Idol didn’t just boast show-stopping performances on Wednesday night’s season 11 finale, it also saw lots of sexy outfits from the likes of some of music’s biggest names including: Jennifer Lopez, Fantasia and Chaka Khan.

But it was Rihanna‘s performance that may have stole the show, respectively. The Barbados beauty, 24, sang her dance hit “Where Have You Been” flawlessly as she strutted around the stage in a very risque, leg-baring black costume. Showing of her new dread lock hairstyle, the singer was able to perform high-energy (and certainly sexy) dance moves, all the while landing her notes.

As we all know by now, Rihanna seems to be most comfortable when she’s wearing very little. This is evident in the above gallery of some of her sexiest and wildest outfits. For a closer look at RiRi’s bra and tasseled skirt-combo from Idol, click below.

rihanna performs on 'idol'

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What did you think of Rihanna’s Idol performance. Play music critic in the comments!

Fantasia Barrino’s ‘American Idol’ Sequin Catsuit: Yay or Nay? (PHOTOS/POLL)

Gabrielle Chung — Thu, 24 May 2012 05:45:30 +0000

Although Phillip Phillips took home the title of American Idol on Wednesday’s season 11 finale, season 3 winner Fantasia Barrino certainly got people talking when she hit the stage in a skin-tight, sequin catsuit.

Channeling Jennifer Lopez à la her 2011 American Music Awards performance, Fantasia, 27, showed off her curves in a black bodysuit as she covered Elton John‘s “Take Me To the Pilot” with this season’s second place runner-up, Joshua Ledet.

While we’re all for celebs taking fashion risks, we’re unsure if Fantasia’s figure-hugging garb was the right choice for the “I Believe” songstress. Did Fantasia rock this look?

Click through the gallery for a closer look, then tell us what you think of her saucy ensemble in the poll!

For more catsuit action, check out her American Idol performance in the video below.

'American Idols': Before They Were Stars

‘American Idol’ Season 11 Winner Crowned!

Jackie Willis — Thu, 24 May 2012 02:02:23 +0000

America has spoken, and tonight, we have a new American Idol!

After a seriously intense season 11 finale, including jaw-dropping performances by past contestants and Rihanna, Ryan Seacrest finally revealed who would be left standing.

So, who is the newest American Idol as voted by 132 million people: Jessica Sanchez or Phillip Phillips?

It’s Phillip Phillips!

Tonight, Phillip became the fifth-straight male to win American Idol, after David Cook, Kris Allen, Lee DeWyze and last year’s victor, Scotty McCreery.

From the get-go, the 21-year-old from Leesburg, GA, was an early favorite to win season 11, thanks to his guitar-playing, Dave Matthews-esque vibe. Some of his best performances included ‘Still Rainin” and ‘Superstition.’

In fact, Phillip was so popular with America, he never once landed in the bottom 3 this season — a feat that was also achieved by past winners including Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.

On Tuesday night, Phillip performed three songs for America’s vote: ‘Stand By Me’; ‘Movin’ Out’; and ‘Home.’ The latter performance earned a standing ovation from judges Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson.

'idol' alums: before they were stars

Meanwhile, runner-up, the 16-year-old from San Diego, CA, Jessica Sanchez, had a remarkable run on Idol. With vocals well beyond her years, Jessica wowed America and judges very early on in season 11, with her epic take on Whitney Houston’s classic ‘I Will Always Love You,’ in week 1 of the finals.

From there, Jessica continued to dominate, thanks to her renditions of hits like ‘How Will I Know’ and ‘Sweet Dreams’ — which made her elimination in week 6 all the more shocking.

On Tuesday night’s performance round, Jessica sang three songs for America’s vote: Whitney Houston’s ‘I Have Nothing’; ‘The Prayer’; and the piano ballad ‘Change Nothing.’

Both contestants had an astounding run, but you think the right person won? State your case in the comments!

Ace Young Proposes to Diana DeGarmo on ‘American Idol’

Jackie Willis — Thu, 24 May 2012 01:27:33 +0000

Love was in the air on Wednesday night’s season 11 American Idol finale when two alums returned.

Ace Young, 31, the stage and got on one to knee propose to season three Idol contestant Diana DeGarmo.

“I love you to death. You’re my best friend. I wanna make this last forever,” Ace, who appeared on season five of the FOX show, said while holding back the tears. “Diana Nicole DeGarmo, will you marry me?”

What was her answer?

Yes, of course!

“Let me put this ring on baby!” Ace responded excitedly, as his hand was admittedly shaking.

A very surprised Diana, 24, told host Ryan Seacrest and her new fiance that Ace “did good!”

Leave a few congratulatory comments for the happy couple below!

'idol' alums: before they were stars

Jessica vs. Phillip: Who Will Win ‘American Idol’ Season 11? (POLL)

Andy Scott — Wed, 23 May 2012 15:58:41 +0000

The time has come! Tonight, American Idol will crown its eleventh winner, following a nail-biting season of tough eliminations, epic style and, of course, some really great singing.

But just who will win? That is the question, as fans must decide between 16-year-old Jessica Sanchez, who slayed it this season with covers of everything from Whitney Houston to Jennifer Holliday, and Leesburg, GA, native Phillip Phillips, 21, who aims to become the fifth-straight male to win the show.

Naturally, only one person can walk away from season 11 a winner. Will America go for another guy, or will they be moved by Jessica’s well-beyond-her-years vocals? We’ll find out tonight, when the star-packed finale airs on FOX.

In the meantime, cast your vote for who will win American Idol season 11 in our poll now, then share your favorite Idol performance from this season in the comments, below!

Jennifer Lopez's 'American Idol' Fashions

Cheryl Cole Eyed As Potential ‘American Idol’ Judge: Report

Amber James — Wed, 23 May 2012 14:39:51 +0000

After being discarded on The X Factor, Cheryl Cole may be headed to it’s biggest competitor — American Idol.

According to the NY Post, the British singer was approached by AI executives on Monday to see if she’d be interested in joining Idol – either alongside Jennifer Lopez or as a replacement if J-Lo leaves.

But does Cheryl have what it takes to be an Idol judge?

The singer appeared in the first few episodes of X Factor before being dumped by Simon Cowell. She was criticized for lacking stage presence and for her thick English accent, sources said.

Jennifer Lopez's 'American Idol' Fashions

More shakeups may be happening on the Idol set.

Last week on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Lopez, 42, said she doesn’t know if she’ll return to American Idol next season in part because she wants to spend more time with her twins, Max and Emme.

“I don’t know if I can go for a third year,” she said. “I miss doing other things. It really does lock you down, which was nice the first year with the babies being 3, but now they’re getting more mobile, they’re about to go into school. So I just don’t know.”

Other sources claim J-Lo is holding out for more money.

“Unless there has been a sudden change of heart, she’s is not going anywhere,” a source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told Celebuzz.

The “On The Floor” singer has been on Idol for two seasons with one-year contracts for both. She went home with $12 million the first time around with a nice raise to $20 million for this season.

Jennifer Lopez’s ‘American Idol’ Fashions: Which Was Your Favorite Look From Season 11? (PHOTOS)

Andy Scott — Wed, 23 May 2012 14:00:16 +0000

Jennifer Lopez has contributed a lot to American Idol in her two seasons with the show: concise criticisms, headline-grabbing performances, a maternal-like demeanor with the contestants.

But if there’s one legacy she’ll leave with the show — assuming the rumors that she’s quitting are true, of course — it’s her incredibly diverse style.

Week after week, the 42-year-old mother-of-two pushed the fashion envelope in daring, age-defying outfits, ranging from sexy bondage dresses to sequined short skirts to ’60s-inspired bell-bottoms.

Even when the looks didn’t quite work, we still appreciated J-Lo’s willingness to give it a try. (Seriously, remember what Paula Abdul used to wear back in the olden days?)

In honor of tonight’s American Idol season 11 finale, we’re taking a look back of all of Jennifer Lopez’s fashions from this season.

Do you have a particular favorite? Relive them all in our gallery now, then cast your vote for J-Lo’s best Idol look in the comments below!

Jennifer Lopez: Highest Paid Celebrity Judges

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Jennifer Lopez Possibly Leaving ‘American Idol’ — Who Should Replace Her?

Amanda Hasaka — Sat, 19 May 2012 21:14:43 +0000

Now that The X Factor judging selection is sorted out, it looks like there’s yet another reality show who will be looking for a new member of their team!

There have been multiple reports saying that Jennifer Lopez will not return for her third season of judging on American Idol, but nothing is official. In the event that the 42-year-old superstar does in fact leave FOX’s hit show, they’re obviously going to need a new judge, so Celebuzz thought we’d pool together some names of who we think would make a great replacement!

So, who are some of those fit to fill in J.Lo’s shoes?

“Party in the USA” singer Miley Cyrus‘ name was tossed around for The X Factor gig, so there’s definitely a possibility she could join AI. Another person who was considered to join Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid was Fergie, who we think would make a fabulous addition to the AI team.

miley makes music in miami

Also, even though Mariah Carey recently dissed Britney Spears‘ new X Factor gig, we think she has what it takes to find the next American Idol.

Those are some of our suggestions, but what do you think? Share you picks in the comments!

Jennifer Lopez: Which Was Your Favorite ‘American Idol’ Look of the Week? (POLL)

Andy Scott — Fri, 18 May 2012 14:45:07 +0000

Jennifer Lopez opted for two very different outfits this week on American Idol, both of which were kind of amazing.

On Wednesday, the 42-year-old beauty went the subtle route, in a perfectly pink pantsuit — her most conservative Idol look to date. Still, despite the subtlety of the look, J-Lo still managed to look classier than ever, due in great part to her, you know, amazing genes.

But what about last night?

Then on Thursday, J-Lo — who is rumored to be leaving the show after two seasons — added a bit more color to her look, in a fun summer dress that mixed fuchsia and teal into one amazing ensemble. Loving it!

In fact, we’re loving the entire week Lopez has been having — pesky Idol rumors aside. Earlier, the mother-of-two claimed the coveted number-one spot on Forbes’ Celebrity 100 list, making her the most-powerful celebrity in the business. Clearly, boyfriend Casper Smart is one lucky man!

Unfortunately, Idol fans may not be as lucky, as there are reports that J-Lo plans to leave the show after season 11, due to her busy schedule. Today, however, Celebuzz is reporting that it’s all a negotiation tactic. Hmm …

Which J-Lo look was your favorite this week? And should she stay on the show? Cast your vote now!

Jennifer Lopez Threat To Leave ‘Idol’ Is a ‘Negotiating Tactic’: Source

Dylan Howard — Fri, 18 May 2012 13:30:20 +0000

Jennifer Lopez’s surprising revelation that she’s looking to leave the Idol judge’s desk is nothing more than a “hardball play for more money,” according to a source close to the situation.

Lopez, 42, shocked fans when she appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on Tuesday and told the host, “I don’t know if I can go for a third year. I miss doing other things. It really does lock you down, which was nice the first year with the babies being 3, but now they’re getting more mobile, they’re about to go into school. So I just don’t know.”

Remarkably, though, the superstar singer-and-actress is banking on producers bowing to the veiled threat and re-negotiating her more $20 million a year pay packet, an insider told Celebuzz.

“Unless there has been a sudden change of heart, she’s is not going anywhere,” said a source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The source added: “During negotiations for her world tour, she insisted that she needed the freedom to be able to still do Idol. Concert promoters assured her the tour would not interfere. It’s a negotiating tactic.”

Lopez recently garnered the coveted top spot on Forbes‘ 2012 list of most powerful celebrities, “mostly because her career was resurrected thanks to Idol,” the source added.

j-lo's sexiest moments from music video

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“She knows the power of Idol,” the pal said.

As Celebuzz first reported, Lopez will tour 20 cities in the US, Canada and Latin America beginning in Montreal, Canada, on July 14.

Jennifer Lopez At 'What to Expect When You're expecting' premiere

Do you think J-Lo should leave the show? Let us know in the comments.

‘American Idol’: Who Will Be in the Season 11 Finals? (POLL)

Andy Scott — Thu, 17 May 2012 15:06:13 +0000

Tonight, American Idol will go from three contestants to two, as the show gets ready to crown its 11th — yes, 11th! — winner, next Thursday.

In what will likely go down as the tightest elimination in the history of the show, America will reveal who they want to see in the coveted finale after Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips and Jessica Sanchez gave it their all during Wednesday’s performance night episode.

But just who will make it to the final round?

This morning, Celebuzz is polling its readers to predict the season 11 final two. Will we see a male-female battle between Jessica and Joshua, or Jessica and Phillip? Or will it be another all-male finale — the first since season 8?

Relive some of the performances from last night, then cast your vote in our poll!

American Idol airs tonight at 8PM ET, and will feature performances by Lisa Marie Presley and former Idol contestant Adam Lambert. (Read our interview with Lambert here.)

Joshua Ledet – ‘I’d Rather Go Blind’

Phillip Phillips – ‘We’ve Got Tonight’

Jessica Sanchez – ‘I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing’

Jennifer Lopez's 'American Idol' Fashions

Jennifer Lopez Hints at ‘American Idol’ Departure, Laughs Off Feud With Cameron Diaz (VIDEO)

Taylor Williams — Wed, 16 May 2012 18:15:40 +0000

Is there a seat open at the American Idol judges’ table?

After Jennifer Lopez‘s interview with talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, some might start to speculate that she’s leaving the singing show.

“I really do enjoy it,” she told Ellen. “Now this is my second year — I don’t know if I can go for a third year.”

Do you think J-Lo should leave the show? Let us know in the comments.

“I miss doing other things. It really does lock you down, which was nice the first year with the babies being three, but now they’re getting more mobile, they’re about to go into school … So I just don’t know.”

J-Lo, 42, joined her What to Expect When You’re Expecting co-star Cameron Diaz, 39, on the talk show, and the two took the time to set the record straight on their rumored feud. Both women have been romantically connected to hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs.

“The fact that we wouldn’t talk to each other and there were all these catfights…” and Jennifer finished off her sentence with, “And I was like, ‘I haven’t even seen her yet! Give us a chance to get in the room.’”

jennifer lopez at the ‘what to expect when you’re expecting’ premiere

What to Expect When You’re Expecting hits theaters on Friday, May 18, with an all-star cast, including: Elizabeth Banks, Matthew Morrison, Chace Crawford, Brooklyn Decker, and Anna Kendrick to name a few.

Check out the interview below for more with Cam and Jen, including J-Lo addressing the postpartum rumors:

Adam Lambert’s Advice to ‘American Idol’ Contestants: ‘Maintain Your Own Integrity as an Artist’ (EXCLUSIVE)

Amber James — Wed, 16 May 2012 16:15:25 +0000

Less than 24 hours after Adam Lambert released his new sophomore album Trespassing, it has already taken the No. 1 spot on iTunes. To say the American Idol alum is ecstatic is an understatement.

“I already saw some pretty important reviews, and everything was kosher. That was a very validating… At the end of the day, being a mainstream artist obviously there is pressure to sell. I can’t control that, but I can control the quality of the songs,” Lambert, 30, told Celebuzz at the MLB Fan Cave in New York City.

Although he’s enjoying the success, he’ll be the first to admit it didn’t come easily. Now with Season 11 contestants Joshua Ledet, Jessica Sanchez and Phillip Phillips all vying for the coveted Idol title, Lambert is offering some advice to the wide-eyed singers.

Find out what tough love Adam is serving to the graduating Idol hopefuls — and much more below.

“The transition from a TV talent contest to mainstream radio is really tricky. It is a whole other industry. The rules are different. Your music is based on a lot more than just popularity. The hardest thing about the show is maintaining your own integrity as an artist. You have to work hard. Nothing happens instantly after the show,” he advises.

Jennifer Lopez%u2019s 'American Idol' Fashions

On Thursday (May 17), Lambert will be returning to his old stomping grounds, performing his new hit “Never Close Our Eyes” on the Idol stage. While he promises an “off the charts” stage show, he’s hoping to pull a few antics of his own backstage — like possibly raiding judge Steven Tyler‘s wardrobe closet!

“I love [Aerosmith frontman] Steven Tyler — and his wardrobe. Every time he comes on screen, I’m like, ‘What the hell is he wearing?!’ I love it… I should ask him if I can raid his closet,” the Grammy-nominated singer joked.

Up next, Lambert will be filling in for one of his primary influences, the late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, during five European concerts with Brian May and Roger Taylor of Queen.

“I’m excited and honored. There is a lot of work to be done. It has been a while since I covered someone else’s music. It’s a different type of challenge. I’ve done research… I want to pay respect to Freddie. I don’t want to just copy him and do an impression. I’m trying the best I can, working together with Brian and Roger. It’s going to be beautiful,” Lambert gushed.

The former Idol alum has no plans to tour in promotion of his own album, Trespessing, but hopes to have “something lined up by the end of the year.”

In the meantime, his fans can expect to see his new music video for “Never Close Your Eyes” within a few weeks. Trying not to give the whole concept away, Lambert revealed, “It’s a little sci-fi. It challenges and reinterprets the lyrics. It’s not obvious. I mean, with me I’m not into the obvious. I like to twist things.”

In case you missed it, check out Part 1 of our interview with Adam — and watch his music video below.

Rihanna Set to Perform on ‘American Idol’ Season Finale! (PHOTOS)

Amanda Hasaka — Tue, 08 May 2012 19:30:17 +0000

Set your DVRs, because Rihanna is ready to rock the American Idol stage!

That’s right, the 24-year-old “Talk That Talk” singer — who attended Monday night’s Met Gala in NYC — will belt out some of her hottest tunes on the season 11 finale of the hit FOX singing competition.

So, when will the super-sized AI finale be airing?

A new American Idol will be crowned on Wednesday, May 23. It’s down to the final four, and the singers that are left standing couldn’t be more different!

Competing for the coveted American Idol title are Jessica Sanchez, Hollie Cavanagh, Joshua Ledet, and Phillip Phillips. We can’t wait to see who will win it all!

jennifer lopez’s ‘american idol’ fashions from season 11!

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RiRi isn’t the only star who will be performing that night. Though they haven’t been announced, we’ll keep you posted on who they’ll be!

Will you be tuning in? Sound off in the comments!

In the meantime, here’s Rihanna’s rockin’ bikini bod:

Jennifer Lopez’s ‘American Idol’ Fashions: Which Was Your Favorite Look This Week? (POLL)

Andy Scott — Fri, 04 May 2012 16:15:31 +0000

Jennifer Lopez opted for two very different looks this week on American Idol.

On Wednesday night, the 42-year-old beauty wowed in a form-fitting red dress — a sexy look that she completed with nude heels and giant hoop earrings. Gold star, indeed!

But what about last night?

Then, on Thursday, JLo took a much simpler route — the first in a long time — donning a sequined top and black slacks with zippers along the side. Sure, it didn’t heat up the screen like, say, the ‘Follow the Leader’ music video, but we still think she pulled it off pretty well.

Which look was your favorite of the week? Take a look at them both in our season 11 gallery, then cast your vote in our poll!

Jlo Joines Wisin & Yandel for 'follow the leader' music video

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Jennifer Lopez: Sexy Lady in Red on ‘American Idol’ (PHOTOS)

Andy Scott — Thu, 03 May 2012 13:25:39 +0000

Seriously, how does she do it?

The 42-year-old bombshell that is Jennifer Lopez once again hit it out of the park last night on American Idol, where she wowed in a gorgeous form-fitting red dress that showed off her curves (natch).

Get more details on her look …

The singer-actress and girlfriend of 24-year-old dancer Casper Smart paired the v-shaped dress with cream heels and oversized gold hoop earrings, for one of her best American Idol looks to date this season!

Inside the show, J-Lo — who recently confirmed her summer tour with Enrique Iglesias, as reported first by Celebuzz — gave yet another standing ovation to 20-year-old contestant Joshua Ledet, who impressed the judges with his slowed-down take on the Bee Gees classic “To Love Somebody.”

Jennifer Lopez Celebrates Casper Smart's Birthday at Cecconi's