Record label BMG has had mixed success with its American Idol artists. On the one hand, standouts like Carrie Underwood go platinum and pick up an armful of Grammys. And Kelly Clarkson, although sometimes causing headaches with her independence, can still deliver mostly solid sales.
And then there's the underperforming Idol types who aren't pleasing executives — which is why they're letting 'em go from RCA.
With three albums out, Season 2 winner Ruben Studdard was axed. And Taylor Hicks, the unlikely winner of Season 5, was shown the door when the industry quickly learned people will vote for the weirdo, but they won't buy his album.
And now comes confirmation that Katharine McPhee has been booted after a lackluster debut. Sure, "Love Story" was a catch single, but "Open Toes," about, um, open-toed shoes, probably forecast that scenario.
So who's next to get bumped from BMG? As much as we enjoyed Blake Lewis' record – shut up, it's a good gym workout soundtrack – we're going to handicap him as the next to go. Beatboxing is only hot if you're bringing sex back.
Editorial Director
I understand Hicks's CD sold almost 700,000, which is pretty good considering most people didn't even know he HAD a CD. He got little to no radio play, little promotion, and no video. Maybe he'll actually be better off now. Maybe he'll get a label and management who will actually promote him for a change.
I don't think Blake will the next to be dropped. There are plenty of closet Blake lovers out there and I think he just needs a second single released. The CD is very good, very current, and has some hits on it that should bubble to the surface soon.
While I love dance music I tend to stay away from the mainstream as a general rule. I haven't watched an episode of Idol since a couple the 1st season. I came across Blake's album by accident and think it's really pretty amazing. Honestly, not a bad song on it. Definitely a good gym workout soundtrack as the article says. Hope he picks up more fans!
Blake was amazing on the show but the idea of his album kinda turned me off till I heard his single on the radio. Ugh, it is so hard to get out of my head and I end up dancing all over the place. I think I love him.
Best thing that ever happened for Taylor. Idiots at record company had no idea how to market him and did nothing.
I think Taylor and Katherine were there own worst enemies. Taylor got a bad rep with the press for being a bad interview. Jaded, put out, etc. Friend shot one in San Antonio and told me it was so bad they didn’t run it as a favor to the label.
Katherine was always “so hectic” that she could not get anything done, promotion wise.
700,000 is not bad and labels will keep working it, unless you’re a pain in the butt. Then they’ll move on.
I was through with American Idol after the second season.
"Open Toes" was a pretty stupid song, lol.
I mean, really!
You mccokas fans need to come to reality! Well Step 1 has happend with her being dropped by her label.I'll just sit back now and watch what happens when she has her wedding to her daddy/pervert.That will be step 2 in the destruction of a promising career.Step 3 will be the pregnancy news is known and then its all over, so get "OVER IT".From some of her remarks in the past she might be diagnosed with a mental issue over her wanting older men? Anyway McCokas fans We'll see in time if someone wants to invest in her career when they see the same thing that most of the public sees.Better load up on Viagra kat
Hello,
I'm interested in getting in contact with the American Idol Reject that dressed as Princess Leia, and was a Star Wars Fan. She was very nervous and they just blew her off. I would like to try to cast her in a Movie that I am producing. Thanks.
thirdmillenniumproductions2000@yahoo.com
I believe she has that special quality that is her own. She just does not realize it yet.
I think If McPhee had a better front cover, She would have sold more albums, I was afraid to get it for my 8 year old so i listened to it myself first, don't judge an album by it's cover, but now a days everyone does especialy if it's for a child!!!!!!!!!