Brainstorming newer, fresher 'Idol' theme nights

AI Charter Member Fri, May 9, 2008 at 11:48 PM EST

I would like to see a mini season of AI alum from all past seasons compete with songs from their own albums. Could be "Celebrity American Idol" with any money won going to the charity of their choice or Idol Gives Back Fund.

pifcat Thu, May 8, 2008 at 01:25 PM EST

I also like the contestant duet idea as well (i.e. Carly / MJ on Ellen)

Instead of one intimidating legendary, how about getting a group of less legendary singer/songwriters to work with contestants. For example folks they found on "Bands Reunited" or "Where are They Now".

Peter Frampton week
Blondie week
Hall and Oats week
Pink Floyd week
Pat Benatar week
American anthems week
Latin week
Wedding song week, lol
David Letterman's singing in the shower set up, lol I'm done...

matchkitjohn Thu, May 8, 2008 at 12:48 PM EST

Any song currently on this week's Top 40.

MaryS in NJ Wed, May 7, 2008 at 06:45 AM EST

American Idol is only about finding the next great star - on the surface, but at least they used to pretend. Now, it seems to be about squeezing out as much $$ from these contestants as they possibly can. Maybe it's always been that way, but I think is different is that American Idol is more blatantly about making money (hello - iTunes downloads!) to show what a powerhouse they are at influencing what Americans buy.

I think the old (stale) song choices probably come down to which songs they can easily get the recording rights for now that we can go to iTunes to buy studio recordings of the AI songs. Maybe they just can't get the recording rights to current songs in time, or for the price they want.

Personally, I think the show has completely lost its charm.

tom Wed, May 7, 2008 at 02:06 AM EST

Metal night. There are enough monster ballads so even non-rock singers can make something work. Plus, it'd be fun.

Canadian Invasion would be good. You know you'd get some awful Celine covers but there's also Barenaked Ladies, Nelly Furtado etc. which would be fun to hear done on Idol.

ABBA week would be fun too.

I think the X-Factor generally has better themes. Perhaps steal from them? Movie Night. #1 Night. Big Band Night. Songs from the 21st Century Night would certainly make it more current than what we've got now.

Singing their own songs week after week would work if you were on the X-Factor (i.e. judges choose for you) but I feel that it would be boring if you just let them sing whatever they wanted in the sense that there would be no variety. There's no doubt that David Cook will do something with a rock edge after the show even with the theme weeks not catering to him. Doesn't seem to be a point since the contestants define who they'll be as artists despite the themes.

Not too modern Tue, May 6, 2008 at 05:21 PM EST

I'm in that 18-34 demo and I think the problem with a lot of the current chart-toppers is that they're not "artists" in the same way the legends are. Nor are they prolific enough to have the kinds of catalogs that leave room for everyone to find a song. I would actually like to see Timbaland/Missy night. Between the two of them, they've written or produced just about everything in the last ten years. But instead of Aguilera, Keys, Legend or Timberlake (who are themselves products of fine fine writer/producers), I vote for themes/mentors like Madonna, U2, and Prince (would make me lose my mind) who have decades-worth of music, have re-invented themselves enough times that there are songs enough for any type of contestant, and are still capable of ruling the charts.

GeorgeLang Tue, May 6, 2008 at 02:46 PM EST

John Cage night.
http://blog.newsok.com/staticblog/

Danielle Tue, May 6, 2008 at 02:45 PM EST

How about a duet night with another contestant? That would be interesting.

me Tue, May 6, 2008 at 02:13 PM EST

i had the same idea as annabelle, performing songs that idols have released since they've been on the show. only problem with that is you would have a lot to live up to, but it could be a challenge. lisa tucker did "because of you" but it was a train wreck. so, it could be good

jason Tue, May 6, 2008 at 02:09 PM EST

it's already been said and it's a no-brainer. it's 2008, let's treat it that way. they don't even have to have mentors, just themes. i like when they did in season 5, any song on any top 10 for that week. c'mon idol, this may work in england, but these kids should be singing current music so we know how they will do TODAY!!! it's that simple.

Tue, May 6, 2008 at 02:00 PM EST

Soundtracks from the past 20 years!

Sue Tue, May 6, 2008 at 01:36 PM EST

I'd love to see:

Alternative Week
80's Pop or 80's New Romantic
90's Alternative
Garth Brooks night
R and B night
Movie Soundtrack night
Maybe something REALLY new like Mark Ronson night...his songs and he's produced Robbie Williams, Lily Allen, Amy Winehouse and Christina Aguilera
Or how about Christina Aguilera night
Timbaland is great
combo night...John Legend, Alicia Keys and Mary J. Blige

Katy Tue, May 6, 2008 at 12:51 PM EST

I've actually been surprised this season. I would have thought Mariah Carey and Dolly Parton might have been limiting for the contestants, but those have actually resulted in the freshest, most interesting performances. This season's real tragedy was the broadly-themed "inspirational" Idol Gives Back night.

That said, why not bring in some more contemporary artists, by all means.

Kelsey Tue, May 6, 2008 at 12:28 PM EST

I like country weeks

Stephanie T. Tue, May 6, 2008 at 12:22 PM EST

Diane Warren night was done in season 2. Diane Warren herself was a judge.

MajorLift Tue, May 6, 2008 at 12:02 PM EST

REM, Melissa Ethridge, U2. All have been around 20+ years and are still relevant to today's music - and still rockin' it hard! Any one of them would add some much needed life into the snoozefest AI has become.

Racon Tue, May 6, 2008 at 11:48 AM EST

How about a Fast Forward Nite? Some good suggestions here. Is anyone from AmIdol monitoring this blog?

Racon Tue, May 6, 2008 at 11:47 AM EST

How about a Fast Forward Nite? Some good suggestions here. Is anyone from AmIdol monitoring this blog?

Carrie Tue, May 6, 2008 at 11:32 AM EST

Since I am over the average viewers age , you would think I would not want much change . But without change their is no progress. And I felt that this year the theme night were stale, redone and needed some freshness . It was just lacking something. Two Beatles night when one was enough. I love Neil Diamond , have every CD on the market, but would my kids want it on their players , hardly! I was bored to tears with Dolly week , admire her talent and songwriting ability but it was not relevant for this age group. I loved MLW week but most of these kids did not know the songs or musicals, true , it is a learning process but I really feel we need some updated material along with the tryed and true. I think we need to educate the contestants and the age group you are losing to some wonderfaul talented people who have gone before BUT lets hear more modern and updated material too. Do one every other week . Modern updated and Golden Oldies .You WILL lose viewers without varity.

desi Tue, May 6, 2008 at 11:15 AM EST

to whoever mentioned Zoobilee Zoo for TV show night....

i love you. marry me. haha :)

carly Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:55 AM EST

I'd also love to see AI get clearance for the song list they used on RockStar...way more interesting. Even the really old songs, like The Letter, sounded "cool." And if they could swap Ricky Minor and pals for Rockstar's Houseband, I would't complain. Oops!

One more idea....original songs. It would be a mess when the field is wide, but top four to top two, give them an option to sing one of their own songs. See who has the cajones to throw down their own material.

filmboymichael Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:53 AM EST

I have always thought that a duet night would be most excellent....I never thought of dream duet, but rather, a male and female contestant must sing together...the TWO with the lowest amount goes home....this would make the show VERY interesting.

carly Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:49 AM EST

How about this for Viewer's Choice...since AI seems to be utilizing the web voting more, put up a giant song list like the one they are using tonight from the rock and roll hall of fame, like, I dunno 100 number one songs from 100 different artists, and let the people rate them. The top 20 or so rated songs are then up for grabs to the Idols. People would be invested in seeing if any of the Idols chose one of their favorite tunes to sing, and if they did it justice.

I hate narrow genre themes or one artist themes, but broad categories like the year you were born or 80s or 90s work for me. If you have someone like Timbaland, he's a producer, not a performer, so any song he's produced is on the table. That would range from One Republic to Missy Elliot to JTim to Duran Duran.

Richard S Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:39 AM EST

When Carly was allowed to sing a few lines of Please Don't Stop the Music on Idol Gives Back, she seemed to come alive and sound far more relevant than most of the contestants have this year. It's already too late for her, but the rest need to sing something newer, quick! How current is Neil Diamond for Slezak's sake? No wonder ratings are dropping.

Rachelle Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:31 AM EST

I like mentors. But...something a little more relevant please! I thought Bon Jovi night last season was pretty cool. So...how about Aerosmith, or Madonna, U2, Faith Hill & Tim McGraw...have Faith mentor the girls and Tim the guys. There have to be artists out there that have large song catalogs that would love the exposure of being on American Idol.
I know they want to challenge the contestants make old songs sound more current...but I'm willing to bet they'd like higher ratings too.

Sunday Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:31 AM EST

Cyndi Lauper week, Olivia Newton-John week, Michael Jackson week, James Bond themes week.

NikkiB Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:17 AM EST

Slezak I like your ideas. How about we also keep it simple and go back to broad theme nights (rock, country, R&B). Also we should test the judges and have them pick songs a couple of weeks (maybe then they will quit harping about song choices). Last but not least ban mentors who are only coming on the show because their album is about to drop (Mariah, Neil, etc).

suebrody Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:17 AM EST

Oh, yeah. Reading your comments, two more:

If you're a singer/songwriter, write your own song. (I know Cook and Castro could; not sure about Sayesha and Archeleta.) But if you couldn't, then work with your favorite to do it (pick the singer/songwriter, Carrie Underwood, whoever, and taken one of their hits that fits your genre, and they could help you mix it up).

Also, sing songs from the Billboard 100 (or at least songs from this decade!!!). I mean, I'm excited about Hall of Fame week, but still, there are no artists from this century. So, um...why not?!

LOL on TV Theme night and one hit wonder nights (but really, how cool would it be to hear Come On, Eileen or Safety Dance?!). :)

Michael, I'm afraid of the unknown singer/songwriters, b/c isn't that happened with This Is My Now (gag me!). Even if the contestants got to choose...still...some of the songs could be pretty bad!!!

Margaret Tue, May 6, 2008 at 10:12 AM EST

One thing that gets me is they tell them to make the song their own but then weigh them down with unique artist songs like Pardon, Diamond or Carrey. At least with decade choices, they have a wide variety of choices to find something closer to their style.

What they need to do away with is the pre-approved list of songs they give the contestants. I know sometimes it's tough to get a song approved and AI is just trying to make things easy but we've had contestants in the past who know what they sound good singing and will fight for a particular song.

When you get a diverse group like this year, you can't try to narrow down their choices like they have. They need to realize to get a diverse group to watch, you need a diverse group of artist and song choices.

Also, why not have a night where they are in front of a rock n roll band instead of an orchastra? Unplugged night? I like they can play instruments this year ... only good change so far.

suebrody Tue, May 6, 2008 at 09:58 AM EST

Okay, I am 45 (!), so maybe that is why the show appeals to me (THOUGH my niece also watches--she is 11--as does my mom, who is 70; so go figure).

I say no more mentors and maybe a few theme nights. But really, if you want the idols to succeed in their chosen field, why do you care if David Archuleta sings Broadway and David Cook sings country? How is that really relevant? Also, the idea of duets (Cook and Carly; sigh, lovely) is cool (hey, they do it on So You Think You Can Dance, and it's interesting). Another idea is to randomly pick out a style from a hat (also done on SYTYCD), so you have a different challenge each week, but everyone will end up with one, and it would be unpredicatable and interesting. Nigel could be all over that one. :) And finally, contemporary. Timbaland? Cool. Jack Johnson? Cool. Carrie Underwood? Cool. Contemporary artists (and young ones!) in various genres (BUT YOUNGER AND CONTEMPORARY), and past idols (Daughtry), could work well.

Jeanine Guidry Tue, May 6, 2008 at 09:45 AM EST

Definitely U2 night! Current year Billboard top 20 songs. And hits from the 2000's.

suzeet Tue, May 6, 2008 at 09:42 AM EST

It's so funny to read the comments here because most of them do do reflect the themes being used by AI today - those that appeal to the over 40 crowd. What is the difference between Neil Diamond and James Taylor in terms of the era of popularity? Maybe AI is not a show for the 18-34 year olds but for those of us like me (at 48) who watch it with their kids?

d. dawn Tue, May 6, 2008 at 09:26 AM EST

I would like to see a James Taylor night on Idol.....David Bowie...how about Michael Jackson!! Idol is slipping in ratings because people are bored! Idol needs to spice it up a bit.

CS Tue, May 6, 2008 at 09:12 AM EST

They absolutely MUST do a duet night. I think that would be amazing!!! I've been wanting that for 7 seasons!

Tue, May 6, 2008 at 08:54 AM EST

How about a Mary J Blige theme night? Or a songs from the past 5 years theme night?

AA Tue, May 6, 2008 at 08:12 AM EST

When they're down to nights where they have to sing two songs, I would like one of the songs to be picked by the judges, but it would be the same song for everybody. So, if there are five people left, we get to hear a song five different ways, arranged differently to suit their styles. And their second song could be something they pick. I know this is something they have in the last ep (or is it second last ep?), but I think it would be cool to hear many multiple versions of the same song.

jules Tue, May 6, 2008 at 07:04 AM EST

i vote for anything contemporary. i would really like to see a "songs of the last ten years" night. i think one of the big problems from this year is that i have a hard time figuring out the kind of artist these idols will be. there have been so many theme nights that force the idols to work with material they've never heard of. idol needs to get back to more open theme nights that allow the idols to show themselves. i think they should have a "idol choice" night in the middle of the competition (maybe top ten???) and see what some of these idols can do when THEY have the choice.

Elizabeth Tue, May 6, 2008 at 06:54 AM EST

Oh... and Disney night. Can you see David Archuletta singing "You've Got A Friend In Me" from Toy Story? (Although would they be allowed to disrupt the ABC/Disney alliance?)

Elizabeth Tue, May 6, 2008 at 06:51 AM EST

How about Songs from a Specific Label, Songs Selected by Former Idol Contestants, Duets w/ your fellow contestants (that might be an Idols Gives Back week gimick). Since this is Rock N Roll Hall of Fame week, maybe a Country Music Hall of Fame week?

bb Tue, May 6, 2008 at 06:23 AM EST

Sing the Phonebook night

Celimene Tue, May 6, 2008 at 06:13 AM EST

Everyone knows a 70's punk night would be a great idea for all involved. I would pay money to see Pauler and Randy-Dawg attempt to come up with some coherent criticisms. And I dare Simon to say "It was very lounge-cruise ship-karaoke-old fashioned-insert random putdown here." Come on... a win-win situation for everyone!

leo Tue, May 6, 2008 at 03:47 AM EST

Ballzack, mate! Luv ya back.

gmcfly Tue, May 6, 2008 at 03:44 AM EST

Songs used in primetime dramas. They could even throw in clip montages on screen behind the performer.

Cover songs. If it was good enough to be successful for TWO recording artists (or more), it will probably make good fodder for the contestants to get creative.

Nina Tue, May 6, 2008 at 01:50 AM EST

OMG, Timbaland would be perfect, he's actually working with people who are no the charts right now. I don't think this show is cool enough to even have think of a Timbaland week. AI barely hardly has any theme weeks that even remotely come close to anything being on the charts right now. For people who think he's doesn't produce any singer songs, he did produce "Apologize" for OneRepublic, that would've been the perfect for David Archeluta to sing. Justin, Beyonce, Christina, these are the artists this show needs to go after, but alas this show will never be that cool to eevn think of that.

Lara Tue, May 6, 2008 at 12:09 AM EST

RIght On Slezak!!! Timbaland night would be a blessing for singers who are technically proficient but lack personaltity. We all know the only way Syesha will ever sell records is if she hooks up with the best producers in the business to make her sound interesting. David A will likely need flashy producers to sell in the long run as well, although I'm sure his first album will sell fine. But in a few years after his cutesy look is gone, who knows?

Sharon Tue, May 6, 2008 at 12:01 AM EST

Sorry for posting twice. Something is wrong with my Internet Explorer and my message didn't show up at first.

Sharon Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:59 PM EST

Sorry for posting my message twice. Something is wrong with my internet explorer and it didn't show up at first. Oops.

Sharon Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:56 PM EST

I think the songwriter-types like David Cook and Brooke White should have gotten the opportunity to do one of their original songs during Inspriational Week. I know Brooke had a few in her independently released album "Songs From The Attic." I also think they should have the opportunity to do their own song in the Final 3 week when they get to pick one song from any genre.

Sharon Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:53 PM EST

The songwriter-type contestants like David Cook and Brooke White should have gotten an opportunity to do their own original song on Inspriational week. Brooke had a few in her 2006 independently released album "Songs From The Attic." I also think they should get the opportunity to do an original song in the Final 3 week, when they usually get to pick one song from any genre.

Ballzack Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:35 PM EST

By the way -- of this article's posts??? LEO's IS THE BEST ONE

Love me some Leo. Dude!

Ballzack Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:35 PM EST

By the way -- of this article's posts??? LEO's IS THE BEST ONE

Love me some Leo. Dude!

Ballzack Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:32 PM EST

Seriously, an amateur songwriting night? That would be soooooo cool. Give them 2 weeks to vet it out and I guarantee the show would take a whole new level. ....harder to control though, so ultimately harder TV. The formula is so easy. But hey!!!!! So many fun songwriting nights to pik from:
Elton John/Bernie Taupin night

Burt Bacharach night

Carole King Night

Holly Night night (love is a battlefield, The Warrior, Obsession, Better Be Good to Me, etc.)

Tom Kelly, Billy Steinberg Night (True Colors, Like a Virgin, Alone, etc.)

Diane Warren night

Lamont Dozier night

Nile Rodgers night

Artist NIGHTS missing from Idol reality: David Bowie, Queen, Kate Bush, Sarah McLachlan, Peter Gabriel, Ryan Adams, Garth Brooks, Coldplay, ABBA.

I mean come on. Good songs that take a real effn singer!

Alan Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:11 PM EST

okay, so maybe these aren't exactly original ideas, but I'm still waiting for a Carole King night. I also think a Madonna night would be a real coup. Otherwise, if I was going to try to be more creative about it, how about a Canadian music night (there's a tonne of stuff people don't even know is Canuck) or an Australia night. In terms of genres, how about New Wave? And for songwriters/artists, there's Morrissey, Prince, Linda Perry...and I'm thinking Michael Jackson could use a career boost at this point.

kana Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:06 PM EST

ummmm, is Timbaland wearing an inflated muscle shirt or is that just a a weird photo? cuz it kinda looks like a little kid's Batman costume. Just sayin'.

i like the idea of the contestants doing duets with famous artists. i don't watch this show, but i'd tune in for that potential trainwreck.

Maddi Mon, May 5, 2008 at 11:05 PM EST

Dude, the Idol Dream Duet idea is a fantasy I've been having for YEARS. You all inside my head?

leo Mon, May 5, 2008 at 10:51 PM EST

My American Idol Themes Nights

1. Songs By Previous Contestants That Got Them Voted Off The Show - If you can stay after singing the same tune, you're a winner!

2. Songs That Are Not Ballads - - Simon is always talking about how robotic the contestants are. Now they have to carry a pop tune and dance like there's no tomorrow.

3. Songs That Simon Knows - Simon doesn't know a lot of the songs on the show, but he does know a good song when he hears one. Now he gets to pick ALL the tunes for the night, so he can't complain about bad song choices.

4. Songs That Randy Has Produced - Randy loves talking about how he's worked with everyone, so show the dawg some love! Pitchiest singer of the night gets voted off.

5. Songs That Paula Has Heard You Sing... But You Haven't - Dionne Warwick is the mentor and contestants have to project a song from the future that Paula's already heard. Meanwhile, Paula gives ALL her critiques at the start of the show.

MARIE CIAFRE Mon, May 5, 2008 at 10:15 PM EST

How about a West Side Story nite,such great songs

suan Mon, May 5, 2008 at 10:12 PM EST

Timbaland night would be great. Anything that has them singing songs from todays artists would be better then what they've been doing. The "theme nights" and everything has sucked for a few years now but it seems like it's getting worse. I'd love to see mentors like Timbaland, Christina Aguilera, Beyonce, Justin, Madonna. Come on AI stop with the crap you've been giving us. I'm just about ready to make this my last season to watch.

Good idea Mon, May 5, 2008 at 10:12 PM EST

Movie soundtrack night is a great idea.

BestRx Mon, May 5, 2008 at 10:08 PM EST

Nashville Star has original song night (it used to have two of them in the first season, I think) and that is great! I also like the idea of Timbaland or maybe Pharell night. Even going back to more general themes like love songs or rock anthems leaves the contestants room to decide how current they want to be.

atskooc Mon, May 5, 2008 at 09:50 PM EST

it wouldn't do much to get the kids watching, but i've always thought a hall and oates night would go over very well.

Coach's Mistress Mon, May 5, 2008 at 09:23 PM EST

I love the Fan Choice night.
I also love Amanda's suggestions of songs chosen by your mom, high school (way fun) and the year of your prom. Great ideas.

I'm sick of the mentors. They seem pointless and often have an agenda (upcoming album to sell!). And as the field gets whittled down, I think they should be allowed to sing the WHOLE song...enough of this mindless banter. We want SINGING!

TellyB Mon, May 5, 2008 at 09:00 PM EST

Why not a Madonna night?

She's had so many classic hits in the past three decades, and her songs, though very solid pop songs,still aren't vocally demanding, so even people like Brooke or Jason Castro are bound to sound good...

Jane March Mon, May 5, 2008 at 08:52 PM EST

Great ideas, Amanda.
*Songs from the year you went to Prom . Or your favorite song from High School.
*Songs That Would be Ironic on Elimination Night - Sorry, but I think some of these contestants just won't get that.
*Song Choices From Your Mother - Yikes!

I don't care, not really, if the 'theme nights' stay or go. I'd like to hear a COMPLETE song, not just 90 seconds. That would get rid of the dead weight early.
Plus, there would be more David Cook. That can only be golden.

Ms Daisy Mon, May 5, 2008 at 08:18 PM EST

Personally, after the last 2 seasons, I'm hoping for instrumental only night.

Annabelle Mon, May 5, 2008 at 08:08 PM EST

What about "Idol Night"? Hear me out-- you can only sing songs released by former contestants AFTER they have left the show. No "This is My Now", etc. But "Since U Been Gone" = OK

Pamela Mon, May 5, 2008 at 07:56 PM EST

Having become addicted to www.whatnottosing.com (thanks to someone listing it for The Must List on P'watch) can we at least agree that any night should not include anything sung more than three times previously on Idol. And, that themes should only be used sparingly: not in the early days of the semi-finals when we are still getting to know all the singers because we saw so little of them in Hollywood week, but I digress...

How about going back to a theme I'm sure was used before: Songs from that week's Billboard (or Itunes) chart? Au courant and there's normally something there for everyone. Or songs from years in the 21st century: 2001, 2002, 2003 etc. Or how about Idols can only select from album cuts rather than hit singles in any given year or within a genre?

What about mixing up the genres: Idols dip into a hat (live on results night) for a genre, year or artist. We'd get something different from each person rather than a night full of bad Broadway or country.

BrandonK Mon, May 5, 2008 at 07:28 PM EST

A week that incorporates indie musicians would be cool. Think of Regina Spektor unleashed upon American Idol!

elicia Mon, May 5, 2008 at 07:20 PM EST

they should sing a song from the top 100 list on itunes

queen of disrepair Mon, May 5, 2008 at 07:11 PM EST

Oscar nominee song night
boys sing the girls/girls sing the boys night (David Cook sings Dusty Springfield; Syesha Mercado sings James Taylor)
I LOVE the idea of duet nights - think of all the good duets that could be covered - then it could be a double eviction week link on Survivor or Big Brother
Gospel week
Rockabilly
Straight out Big Band night - hell, go old, go All the Way Old...
(I know it was done before but its been awhile)
Rock Anthem Week
Hits from College Radio week
Alt-Country week
Pure Emo Week
and now, randomly, Elvis Costello week, Kate Bush week,and, because she has an amazing catalog, Carole King week - I know that would have been a good fit this year instead of Andrew Lloyd Weber week (what the Hell were they thinking? Mark Shaiman week at least for the poppy fun of it all!)

Sean Mon, May 5, 2008 at 07:02 PM EST

I would like to see Idol follow the lead of shows like So You Think You Can Dance where each week is a "challenge" and the contestants have to use their creativity more to meet or excel. An example would be "most original cover"night were they all need to find a creative way to redo a song (like Imagine or Billie Jean this season). Another would be a "Current Billboard Hot 100" night. Overall, I think I would just like to see the themes broadened. Broadway night instead of Andrew Lloyd Webber night. Songs of the 70s with Neil Diamond as the mentor.R&B night with Mariah as mentor etc. Someone else made the suggestion of a fan choice night which i think is a great idea. Fans suggest songs for the top 20 and when they get to the Top 5 or 6 each Idol picks from a list of the Top fan suggestions for them. They need to open the scope a bit to not alienate the viewer base.

ali Mon, May 5, 2008 at 06:55 PM EST

What about a night dedicated to songs from Canadian singers? Chantel Kreviazuk, Our Lady Peace, Sarah McLachlan, Nelly Furtado, Joni Mitchell . . . the list just goes on and on. But there would have to be a rule . . . NO CELINE DION!!!

starz22 Mon, May 5, 2008 at 06:50 PM EST

I would like to see a show where all the 10 finalists from the previous years appear and we can see what they are doing. I am sure many are on Broadway, but it would be interesting to see them.

PDub Mon, May 5, 2008 at 06:38 PM EST

Agree with Timbaland night (seeing as how, as you said, half of everything on the radio has his fingers in it or on it.) I also like the idea to bring in some unknown songwriters and allow contestants to cover their material. For heaven's sake, seriously, stop asking them to sing songs from the 60's and then criticizing them for being old fashioned!!!!! Allow them to cover music from current times so that we might have some idea what they would sound like if they made a record.

Ellen Mon, May 5, 2008 at 05:14 PM EST

I love the Fan's Choice idea that DanOregon said earlier!Contestant picks-you vote! Online or by 1-800 number so everyone can participate! That would be cool to get the fans involved in the song pick!

JK Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:56 PM EST

Foo Fighters night! Then we can get some Dave Grohl screaming in! :)

Stephanie T. Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:56 PM EST

Chris, you could be on to something. However, lets make it open for all of the boy/girl bands. It would be cheesy fun.

ron Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:40 PM EST

Menudo greatest hits night....LOL

Gabe Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:38 PM EST

P.S. I completely agree with Angela about Kara DioGuardi night, she is awesome. And while we're talking about songwriters how about a Max Martin (I Want it That Way, Baby One More Time, Since U Been Gone and many more) night too?

Lee Chesnut Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:32 PM EST

My suggestion is to eliminate heavily themed weeks and let the contestants choose whatever they want to sing. And if the producers are afraid that the show wouldn't have enough sizzle without the themes, then only have them every other week. This would allow each contestant to show us, over and over, exactly what kind of artist they are and what one of their albums might sound like. If Kristy Lee Cook wants to be a country star, let her come out and sing a country song every week. If Jason Castro wants to be the next Jack Johnson, then allow him show us his laid-back, guitar-strumming thing over and over. I think we all know what Chris Daughtry would have done if he'd been allowed to skip "The Great American Songbook Night" or "Country Night." In Chris's season, the first three weeks of the 24 competition were "Singer's Choice", and that's when he wisely chose songs from Fuel, Bon Jovi, and Seether. Mission accomplished.

Gabe Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:30 PM EST

I really liked the 'Billboard hits' night that they have done in previous seasons where contestants had to sing a song that was on a billboard chart. Would also like a 90's/00's theme.

Tuzo Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:23 PM EST

Carly Smithson night! Ok, maybe not for the next season of Idol but in a few years it would be good. ;)

Chris Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:14 PM EST

New Kids on the Block night!! WOOHOO!!

Stephanie T. Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:06 PM EST

Songs that are usually sung in a Kareoke bar. Simon always comments about that. Maybe one of those songs can be sung correctly.

Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:04 PM EST

Latin Freestyle night!

Stephanie T. Mon, May 5, 2008 at 04:03 PM EST

Stevie Wonder Night was done on Season 5. It was the first night of that season and Melissa McGhee was the first victim.

How about smooth jazz night? Al Jarreau, Anita Baker, Bobby Caldwell,etc. I'd also opt for George Michael night. Early Wham! to his current works.

MAS Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:57 PM EST

I've been thinking a Dixie Chicks night would be interesting. Their music is pretty versatile and can be adapted to different genres so it wouldn't necessarily end up being Country Night.

Stef Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:49 PM EST

I agree with an earlier poster, with all the pimping they do for iTunes on the show you'd think they could do a "Top iTunes" night. Or, to pull in other sponsors, how about a "Songs with Fords" night, or maybe they could pull in new sponsors with "Songs with tears/crying night" to get Kleenex involved, or a "Songs with beer/tequila" night and get Anheisur-Busch in the mix. That might bring in the 18-34 demographic.

Trisha Tanaka Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:48 PM EST

Tanya- I agree! I miss movie night.

How about an Oscar winning songs night? Some may be older, but some are also newer. Plus, take a look at the entire list...those are some of the greatest songs ever.

Tanya Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:42 PM EST

BRING. BACK. MOVIE. NIGHT

StaleCake Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:35 PM EST

And do you love how they stopped the decades-theme at the 1980's? Um... that was 20 - 30 years ago! LOL -- What about a frakkin' 1990's night or God forbid a 2000's night?

yssys Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:34 PM EST

I'm with NineDaves I was dreaming about duets nights among the idols themselves Carly/Michael Johns, Brooke/Jason, David C/Amanda...maybe next season!

Kristen Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:34 PM EST

SO many good ideas. My favorites here are Dave Matthews (ooh, Alicia Keys..John Legend..) as a mentor, song of the year, any genre, Grammy nominees, and letting your hometown/high school pick the song. (The only problem is SO many of the best songs probably wouldn't be cleared- I mean, only one contestant has ever sung a Prince song, for example (I think)). I also like the idea of having a mentor, but not having to sing only songs from that artist.

TSD Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:34 PM EST

Stevie Wonder night would be grand. So would Motown night, Luther Vandross night, or Michael jackson (before he went completely insane) nights would be fun.

StaleCake Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:33 PM EST

I like the Timbaland one because in pop hits it is only half the songwriting -- we need to see a PRODUCER-MENTOR. To be more like the real world, a producer who ARRANGES ELECTRONICA WITH THE IDOLS. Like Timbaland, Pharrel, Moby, Pet Shop Boys, Jay-Z, or will.i.am? Doing a remixed version of any song they can clear? That would be FABTASTIC.

StaleCake Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:31 PM EST

The best thing about your Duets night is that the MENTOR SINGS WIHT THE IDOLS! I am all for mentors, but not when they are air-lifted in for approximately 1.5 minutes per contestant. Surely there are stars kind enough (or fame-whorish enough, take your pick) to actually arrange the song and PLAY WITH THE IDOLS. How about a passionate diva like Reba Macintyre or Celine Dion to do this?

LisaM Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:26 PM EST

High School Musical Night

Mark M Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:22 PM EST

We want the best,so give us the best...KISS

Mark M Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:19 PM EST

Songs performed by one time Mousketeers Night.. ^=^

Dave in Alamitos Beach Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:18 PM EST

I wouldn't mind "Judges Night" where one of the three judges gets to pick all the songs that the Idols will sing. That way they could stop attacking the Idols for "song selection" and start looking in the mirror. Also, having your hometown or High School pick the song could include outsiders and challenge the Idol contestant. And of course, Top Current I-Tunes or last year's Grammy Nominees for Best Song (in any genre)or something similar could be good. Why not "World Music" or at least a genre such as Bossa Nova, or heck why not Mariachi? And if you're going to pick a mentor who is not currently at the top of the charts, have them pick songs of the last 10 years they wish they had written/sung? And I think "Classical Crossover" would really separate the true talents from the wannabes. I think "Christmas in April" would be at least different and not a re-tread. As for Timbaland, absolutely, but don't you think they have a standing offer out to Timbaland, Jay-Z,Justin & Beyonce?

chihchi Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:16 PM EST

Well if they opened up the genre that the mentor sings it would open it up a lot more, ie country instead of only Dolly Parton songs. It has made this season so incredibly boring. I record and fast forward over most of the songs.

Stephanie T. Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:12 PM EST

TV Theme Song night! Genius.

Stephanie T. Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:11 PM EST

ABBA night
Arena Rock night
Punk/New Wave night
Brit Pop night
Indie night (current and classic indie)
Singer Songwriter night
Synthpop night- Singers will be coached by Andy Bell of Erasure
Art Rock night
Songs that were featured in 80's brat pack movies.

Morgan Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:09 PM EST

those are fantastic ideas Slezak. I also love the prom night song idea and the iTunes top 100 ideas listed above. How about, favorite summer jam/feel good song? yeah the weather's just really great today....

MK Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:09 PM EST

So I got on here to plug my awesomely original idea of TV Themes...and somebody beat me to it. But it's still awesome; the songs are built to last about a minute, so there's no cutting a song down so much it no longer makes sense. Plus, it would be perfect for a later round where they all do like five songs each anyway. I could die happy if I got to see Archuleta singing earnestly about the Gummi Bears. And I really would die if they all did Zoobile Zoo on results night.

phredd!! Mon, May 5, 2008 at 03:03 PM EST

Here's the genius: TV THEME SONGS NIGHT!!! Can you imagine David Cook doing a rock ballad version of the theme from Gilligan's Island? Or David Archuleta rockin' out to "As Long As We Got Each Other" from "Growing Pains"? Syesha could probably turn out the theme from "One Day At a Time" like nobody's business. And obviously Jason Castro would simply HAVE to do "Come On Get Happy" from "The Partridge Family."

Again, GENIUS, I SAY

Gator Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:51 PM EST

I would love to hear great Break Up Anthems! Songs that are either uber depressing or scream to hell with you. Maybe we could see if any of the contestants are capable of capturing real emotions

cimagato Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:45 PM EST

Break up the theme nights with weeks where the contestants choose their own songs, from anytime, anyone. That way we can hear their true 'voices', rather than the AI producers.

Amanda Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:43 PM EST

I totally agree wtih Movie Soundtrack night. Other possibilities:
*Songs from the year you went to Prom (could provide some funny flashback photos).
*Songs That Would be Ironic on Elimination Night
*Song Choices From Your Mother
*Songs chosen by your high school

sari Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:41 PM EST

U2 night, Tom Petty night andddd hmm I don't know. One hit wonders night.

Sam Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:41 PM EST

This is part in jest, but what if they had number ones from around the world. Like for the top 5, everyone had to pick a different country, not the US because that's too easy. It would be like world music night which we don't have.

Heather Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:29 PM EST

Idol themes only last year were relevant consistently to today's music. Previously there have been weeks upon weeks of oldies but goodies. What hinders the contestants is limiting themes based upon one artist. That said, get relevant and funny by using a VH1 list of "Greatest Songs of the 90s" or something like that. (I vote for "40 Most Softsational Soft Rock Songs" as the list to use at least once.)

Angela Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:28 PM EST

Whoops! Typo!

Kara DioGuardi

Angela Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:25 PM EST

Kara DioGuari night. She's a hit-making songwriter, and a talented singer as well. She deserves way more recognition than she gets.

Gam Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:20 PM EST

I'd watch death metal night or two whole weeks of reggeaton.

Christina Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:20 PM EST

This years themes have sorely been lacking in relevance to todays music. Themes that I think could work:

iTunes Top 100 night: The show is already tied to iTunes so why not
U2 night: They have a catalouge spanning 30 years but they're still relevant in today's scene
Duets Night: I've been wanting a duets theme for seasons. They would have to do it later in the season when they sing two songs though in case the duet goes horribly wrong

Ceballos Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:20 PM EST

I hadn't realized this, but, since the "real" competition began (after the audition rounds and Hollywood Week), the Idols had to sing, in order, 60s, 70s, 80s songs (semifinals), then two weeks of Beatles materials, followed by the "songs from the year you were born".

Since most of the contestants are more than 20 years old, that means we got six straight weeks (or a month and a half) of the "Idols" not being allowed to sing something originally recorded after 1989. I totally agree this needs to be addressed.

NineDaves is absolutely right in that there are plenty of great potential mentors under the age of 35 that should be considered. (I could especially see a Dave Matthews night.)

Snsetblaze Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:14 PM EST

Well, they have done country night. Why not folk music night? There are a ton of artists making great music in those areas who are not as well known. Some have even hit the charts (Sara McLaughlin, the Indigo Girls or Shawn Colvin for example). How about a hard rock or indie rock night? How about a one-hit wonder night or a novelty song night (c'mon you know you want to hear something by Wierd Al). How about allowing them to sing their own songs?

mscisluv Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:12 PM EST

In the past they have done a "Billboard Top 100" night in which contestants could pick any song on the current Billboard charts - in any genre: pop, country, rock, etc. I definitely want to see that every year.

A Timbaland night would be great, but I'm not sure how many of his tracks would work with a singer and live band. They don't tend to be "singers' songs."

NineDaves Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:05 PM EST

love the idea of a duets night! would even like to see duets amoung the idols themselves (i'm hoping for a carly/michael johns duet on the finale or tour). OR WHAT ABOUT PAST IDOLS. man i just got chills thinking about a chris daughtry/david cook duet. man i need to get a life.

i would also like to see younger mentors, like john mayer, ben folds, alicia keys, justin timberlake, nelly furtado, john legend, etc. heck, even (gasp) dave matthews. it doesn't have to be their songs - just maybe their advice.

BC Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:03 PM EST

Christina Aguilera Night / TRL Night (have to pick a song that's been on TRL in the past year) / R&B Night

alison Mon, May 5, 2008 at 02:02 PM EST

i agree--do away with theme nights for a season or two and see how it goes.

DanOregon Mon, May 5, 2008 at 01:53 PM EST

Movie Soundtrack night

Fan's choice night. Contestants pick 5-8 songs and viewer's pick the song on the Internet.

Minutiae Mon, May 5, 2008 at 01:50 PM EST

I don't think a lack of theme nights would change anything. During the semis in past seasons, most of the contestants still picked songs that were at least 10 years old. Personally, I liked the theme the show did in Season 5 where they had contestants pick songs that were currently on any of Billboard's Top 10 lists.

AA Mon, May 5, 2008 at 01:45 PM EST

What if we were to try a season where there were NO theme nights. Ever. Just let them sing--week after week--the kinds of songs they would sing as if they had already won.