Media has always been a powerful tool when it comes to the success of artists. But now, more than ever, websites, critics, television and radio personalities, bloggers and other social media influencers have the ability to make or break an artist…or a reality singing competition.
The American Idol reboot was arguably one of the most anticipated shows of the season. But, the new season’s ratings have belied the fact that the show has produced some of the most successful artists to ever come out of a reality singing competition. Idol airs on Sunday and Monday nights, meaning that it goes head-to-head against ratings king The Voice. But, Idol isn’t giving up.
In fact, the show is pulling out all the stops, and in doing so has recruited the man that Forbes dubbed “The Most Powerful Man In Country Music.” But around here we call him King Midas. Country radio personality Bobby Bones. Bones, the host of his self-titled syndicated radio show The Bobby Bones Show, has single-handedly launched the careers of some of country music’s biggest artists.
Without a doubt, Bones has the incredible ability to sniff out hit songs and potential megastars. Cam and Chris Janson are just two country artists who credit Bones with their success. Both artists debuted songs on Bones’s show before they were even singles. Cam’s “Burning House” and Janson’s “Buy Me A Boat” went on to become smash hits and set both artists on the path to fame.
In what Forbes calls “perhaps the reboot’s smartest casting move,” Bones will act as a mentor for the Top 24 contestants in episodes airing Sunday, April 8, and Sunday, April 15. Why is this a smart move for Idol? Because Bobby Bones has one of the largest fans bases in country music with more than 3 million listeners tuning into his show ever single weekday morning. This could potentially bring a whole new audience to the Idol screen.
In addition to his King Midas of Country Music title, Bones is one of the funniest guys in the industry and is sure to bring a different vibe to a show that is desperate need of some help.
Will you be tuning in to see Bobby Bones? Let us know what you think of his role on American Idol.