Kara DioGuardi Interviews: ABC News Radio and the Today Show

New American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi is making the rounds of the talk shows in anticipation of the Season 8 premiere tomorrow night.

Kara talks with ABC News Radio HERE. A couple of highlights:

  • Kara says she’s honest like Simon Cowell, but with more compassion, like Paula Abdul. “I try to inject some heart into it, ” she says.
  • About what she’s looking for in a contestant, “I’m looking for somebody, that when they step on that stage there’s a ‘wow’ factor. They have an incredible voice, they’re distinctive. When they’re performing, they’re charismatic, they pick the right songs to showcase their voice, and they’re unique.”
  • She’s also looking for “truth” in their performances–she feels it’s important that contestants emote.
  • She’d love to see Prince as a mentor.
  • The really successful Idol winners chose good songs–likely radio hits–to sing afterward.
  • She’s afraid Chris Daughtry thinks she’s a stalker after her public plea for him to call her. Heh.

It’s a good interview, so take a listen.

After the jump, Kara is interviewed by Matt Lauer on this morning’s Today show. Clips from the upcoming audition shows are featured in the interview. Kara will be on the Late Show with David Letterman later tonight.

About mj santilli 34833 Articles
Founder and editor of mjsbigblog.com, home of the awesomest fan community on the net. I love cheesy singing shows of all kinds, whether reality or scripted. I adore American Idol, but also love The Voice, Glee, X Factor and more!