Roseanne who?

Does anyone else remember Roseanne Barrs' horrible rendition of the National Anthem at a 1990 San Diego Padres game? After watching this seasons' American Idol premiere, I am convinced that Roseanne's unspeakably bad performance was the inspiration for the show. You know, turning ear-pollution into primetime gold.

There were many talented singers featured in the two-hour season opener; but, as goes the old Bon Jovi tune, "every rose has its thorn[s]". I know from personal experience that auditions are very harrowing. You know that you are there to be judged, and it can be a highly uncomfortable feeling, especially if you've never been in that type of situation. It's similar to a job interview, only instead of having the safety of a portfolio or desk to hide behind, you're standing up baring your soul to the world (or, at least the judges). I would contest to say that there were more than a few auditionees for whom this was their first (and, perhaps, last) audition. Maybe it didn't go so well just because of their nerves.

However, there were plenty of people who were absolutely convinced by friends, family, teachers, and the voices inside of their head, that they could actually sing. I beg to differ. In the words of Simon Cowell "that is the weirdest thing I've ever heard." What were they thinking? And what were their so-called friends and family thinking? Did they think that being berated on national television by some British 'musical guru' would help their son/daughter/best friend discover their true self-worth, their value? NO!

PLEASE! For the love of ear drums around the world! If someone in your life is tone deaf, rhythmless and/or has a larger-than-life ego, don't encourage them to appear on American Idol! I mean, I love to dance and have good rhythm, but I'm not that great at it. I'm not about to go try out to be a Rockette.

All that to say it sure makes for a good TV show.