rather than hijack an AI thread for this I figured its better to create a new thread.

so the quesion is - would you rather watch AI or a bunch of drunks at a kareoke bar? it seems that most of the enjoyment for many is the idiot auditions on AI so would you watch a show with just straight drunks mangling a bunch of hit songs?

American Idol. The difference is that the drunks are aware that they suck.

Can I just watch the original Gong Show?

I'd say the drunks, chances are they'd fall over or something.

Drunks.

Because its better than having to sit through Simon trying to top himself with "insults".

Drunks. In my mind, the judges' past appearances on the Howard Stern Show have stripped all credibility they might have ever had. They couldn't tell the difference between a recording artist and some bum off the street.

Thank you.

Neither. They both suck.

Drunks...funnier and more entertaining. Plus there is always the threat of puke or bodily harm....funny stuff!!

I've seen all of the above and I agree with the Gong Show comment.

BTW when AI was first announced I thought "OH no not another Star Search"

Paint dry.

Leaky faucet drip.

I'd have to go with the twikoff option on this one.

Drunks. I've seen drunks with talent at the karaoke bar...can't say the same for American Idol.

I've seen all but 10 minutes of AI over the years. Watching grass grow can be quite invigorating.

I would just as soon watch spit on the sidewalk dry up!!

Drunks, at least I can sing along with them.

Around 100,000 people tried out for AI this season. Are you saying it's absolutely inconceivable that any of them could have singing talent? How is that possible?

I'm sure some were talented. I'm also sure that the most talented didn't end up on the show.

Then the talented ones were lucky.

Win, and you get to sing mediocre pop music until people quit caring about you.

Or you can be like that one guy, Clay somethingorother, whose relegated to being a "special guest".

If this is all the show has to offer the "winners" then why bother?

apples to apples. Same thing, IMO.

I'm guessing that if you're planning on making a living in music, it's a hell of a lot better to be forgotten than to have never been known.

What's the difference? You end up being unknown no matter what.

At best you become an answer on a future "Trivial Pursuit" game card.

$$$ - A guaranteed record deal, at least one charted album, national exposure. Even if it lasts for just a year, I'd be willing to bet it beats waiting tables and sending out demo tapes until you're 40.