Jan 14 2009
Girls - and Katrina Darrell in a bikini - excite new Season 8 of American Idol
New judge Kara DioGuardi almost turned the premier of the new Season 8 of American Idol into a mini talent quest between herself and a bikini-wearing contestant. This was just one of the highlights of the chart-topping tv show.
But before the bikini, we were treated to a few vocal treats as well. Arianna Afear (photo) has a wonderful voice, full of colour and tone which she put into her version of Put Your Records On. “16 years old and stunning,” said Paula, and Arianna went on to earn 4 yes votes from the judges.
Lea Marie Golde is another 16 year old, has written over a hundred songs already, and is Kara’s best fan, but the judges decided she was too young and not ready. Lea threatens to return next year.
With extensive tattoos and a difficult career choice, Emily Hughes, singer in an all-girl rock n roll band, also got 4 yes votes and it will be interesting to see how she explains everything to her band members.
The producers of American Idol must love some contestants, not least when Katrina Darrell appeared before the judges in a bikini. America is the land of opportunity, but also marketing, so self-marketing is an art form. In Katrina’s case, a sweet voice and, it must be said, a sweet bod went all the way to success.
There were 55 million viewers for the final last year. Maybe Katrina’s statistics will help the numbers this year too!!
Footnote 1: over 100,000 visitors went to Katrina’s website in first 24 hours after the American Idol episode. They exceeded their monthly bandwidth limit in one day and needed to upgrade to unlimited bandwidth. Oh, and the tv show requested the videos of her audition be removed from YouTube - spoilsports.
Footnote 2: Casey Carlson’s Campus Girl bikini photos have also received major visits online.
