Mastering American Idol Songs

It’s no wonder that American Idol is consistently rated a top-ranked TV show.  The program showcases the best young singing talent that the United States has to offer.  The captivating music…the various personalities on the show…and the excitement which the show generates have made it a favorite of music lovers of all ages throughout the country.

With thousands of singing hopefuls auditioning for the show each year, it’s clear that there’s a hunger in America for solid musical entertainment.  There are also a number of Kelly Clarkson wanna-bes out there who believe they have what it takes to become the next American Idol.

If you believe you fall in that category—or you’d at least like to try out a few American Idol songs—know that it is indeed possible to master the American Idol sound, provided you’re willing to follow a few key pointers. 

To begin with, it’s important to recognize the fact that American Idol songs come in a variety of styles.  One week the show may showcase country classics or retro favorites, while another week it’s dedicated to Motown or Manilow.  What this means for you as a singer is that you need to develop adaptability.  In other words, you need to learn the technique of taking a song and making it your own.

You may recall how, during the last season of American Idol, singer Chris Daughtry was able to take virtually any song and put his own distinctive stamp on it.  He was a heavy rocker and it showed with every song he sang.  However, somehow he was able to take his intense style and make it work for a variety of melodies.

Similarly, you should be able to take American Idol songs and adapt them for your particular range and vocal capabilities.  For instance, if you’re a country singer like Carrie Underwood, you can adapt one of the American Idol songs and give it a country feel.  By using your own personal intonation and rhythm, you can give your own unique interpretation to the song.

However, it’s important to know your limits.  For instance, American Idol contestant Kellie Pickler had a marvelous sound and style, but it wasn’t necessarily appropriate for hard-rock tunes.  American Idol judges stress the idea of staying true to who you are as a singer so that you can excel on stage. 

If you do decide to add a song from the show to your repertoire, don’t make the critical mistake of trying to imitate one of your favorite Idol contestants.  Such a technique is sure to backfire.  You have to realize that every singer is unique and, just because a singer has already made it to American Idol, that doesn’t necessarily mean that that singer is more unique than you are.   While it’s been said that it’s important to “act out” a song,  you will score better with audiences if you convey a certain honesty and vulnerability with each song.  Otherwise, you run the risk of being dismissed as an imitator rather than an innovator.   In order to avoid that trap, it may be necessary for you to pursue vocal lessons.