Yea, we’ve all heard the rumors – the ratings are falling, the drama and in-fighting between the new judges might sound the death knell for the 12th year of this now-iconic show.

Please.  This is the same country that made the Kardashian’s a household word.  Sadly, sometimes, we thrive on the drama.

The focus here, though, should be about the music…it’s the star, and it’s brought Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Daughtry and now, maybe countless others out of their small-town obscurity to the national vernacular, and its contestants on playlists of radio stations like this one.

And it all begins again, tonight.

American Idol, Season 12.

The judges?  Warhorse Randy Jackson, ‘newbies’ Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nikki Minaj.  Notice I separated the women.

What will the new season be like?  Constant judging battles and drama?  Really funny auditions the first few weeks?  More hits on YouTube than last year?

Time will tell, starting at 8pm tonight.

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