American Idol 8 on a higher level

MANILA, Philippines - American Idol (AI) is taking itself to a higher level. For Season 8, some changes in the format were introduced early on and Kara DioGuardi, a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, joined Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson.

Host Ryan Seacrest underscored the changes, too. For one, there were three weeks of auditions, instead of the usual four. The change allowed for a second Hollywood week. Group numbers also made a comeback in the Hollywood round of AI.

For the semifinals, 36 hopefuls, instead of 24 will be chosen and wild-card picks — also making a smashing comeback after Season 3 — will have the judges choosing three singers to join the Top 12. 

This early, it’s easy to tell that this year’s batch of AI  hopefuls is one of the most talented and charismatic. But all the drama during Hollywood Week can make or break even the most talented of the lot.

Catch AI on Q-11 as it airs every Wednesday and Thursday night at 6 with replays at 8:30.