Yep. We reported it on Monday. But now it’s OFFICIAL. Katy Perry’s band leader, Kristopher Pooley has joined American Idol as music director.
ABC revealed the news in an official press release on Wednesday (Jan 24), which also announced the addition of executive producer, Phil McIntyre. Demi Lovato’s manager has joined the show as executive producer in charge of all musical things–Idol’s current version of the role played in the past by Clive Davis/Jimmy Iovine/Scott Borchetta.
American Idol: Demi Lovato Manager Phil McIntyre Joins as Music EP
Along with Katy Perry, Pooley has worked with a slew of artists, including Adam Lambert (Original High World Tour), Gwen Stefani, Niall Horan, Demi Lovato and more. He also has extensive TV experience, including working on projects from producer Ryan Murphy (Glee, Glee Project, AHS and more) and Katy’s Super Bowl Halftime Show. I wonder if “Left Shark” will make an appearance? Heh.
Additionally, music producer, live music director, and multi-instrumentalist Kristopher Pooley has joined the series as music director. In this role, he will be responsible for working with the contestants to create song arrangements, leading the live band, and helping to guide and advise the contestants on their journey to become the next superstar. Pooley’s career has kept him busy producing music for television, including the Super Bowl Halftime show, “The Glee Project,” “American Horror Story,” “American Bible Challenge,” and “Glee,” among others. As a veteran live music director, Pooley has worked around the world arranging and music directing shows for Katy Perry, Kesha, Gwen Stefani, Adam Lambert, DNCE, Dixie Chicks, Miguel, Tegan and Sara, Niall Horan, Demi Lovato, Rita Ora; and as a multi-instrumentalist for Melissa Etheridge, Morrissey, Smashing Pumpkins, Jane’s Addiction, Siouxsie Sioux and many more.
Originally, ABC was in talks to bring back former Idol musical director Rickey Minor, but we heard that talks broke down over money. I heard Idol may have gotten a special deal on Pooley via his connection to Katy…
Minor is currently the director for new FOX competition, The Four.
American Idol returns to television on ABC Sunday March 11. Hollywood Week is happening in Los Angeles AS WE SPEAK.
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