Dream On: The Steven Tyler American Idol Experience

By: Frank Iacono

It’s time for optimistic contestants from around the country to “Come Together” and step onto the grandest stage and “Lay It Down” while new judges “Draw The Line” in hopes of finding the next great pop superstar. So, “Get A Grip” and “Walk This Way” as we embark on one “Crazy” journey which is sure to leave some “Jaded,” some “Crying” and others going “Round and Round.” “Just Push Play” and “Let The Music Do The Talking” as we “Dream On” alongside these wacky competitors. Welcome to Season 10. I’m Ryan Seacrest. And, this is American Idol.

What Does It All Mean, Ryan?

So, what do all the songs listed above have to do with Season 10 of American Idol (AI)? Well, on September 22, 2010, Fox confirmed that Steven Tyler, the legendary front man and lead singer of the prominent Boston-based rock band named Aerosmith who performs the aforementioned songs, would join AI as a member of the judging panel for the program’s tenth season. Tyler, replacing Simon Cowell, would sit alongside returning judge Randy Jackson and newly added actress, singer, record producer, dancer, television personality, fashion designer and television producer Jennifer Lopez who was replacing Ellen Degeneres and Kara Dioguardi.

Tyler, the “Demon of Screamin’,” equally known for his on-stage acrobatics and wearing bright, colorful outfits with trademark scarves was selected as a judge for his flamboyant personality and outrageous behavior.  To say he has been nothing short of sensational so far would be an understatement. To illustrate, Seacrest recently announced on his radio show that Tyler has been a “homeroom.” In other words, Tyler has single-handedly saved the show since the departure of Cowell, the blunt and often controversial British judge who was filled with criticisms, insults and wisecracks.

Does Tyler Get Support from Fellow Aerosmith Band Members?

Aerosmith’s guitarist Joe Perry recently told the Calgary Herald during an interview, “it’s his business, but I don’t want Aerosmith’s name involved with [American Idol]. We have nothing to do with it. [Idol] is a reality show designed to get people to watch that station and sell advertising… It’s one step above Ninja Turtles.”

Aerosmith’s other guitarist Brad Whitford recently told the Boston Herald that he felt Tyler’s new AI gig can only be a good thing for the band by saying, “it’s going to expand our audience, for sure.” And, that “people who would never think about seeing Aerosmith might change their minds after seeing him on TV.”

What Are Other Rock Artists Saying?

Kid Rock commented against Tyler joining the judging trio by saying, “[Steven] is a sacred American institution of rock ‘n’ roll, and he just threw it all out the window, [He] just stomped on it and set it on fire. We should bring back the guillotine, or whatever they call that thing. And if [Steven made the decision] himself, he needs some serious counseling. I love him to death, but I gotta speak the truth.”

Gene Simmons of KISS, who performed two songs with runner-up Adam Lambert in Season 8’s finale, chimed in supporting Tyler’s decision to join AI by tweeting on his Twitter account: “To all naysayers out there, Steven Tyler will rock @AmericanIdol… and bring some real credibility to it.”

What Impact Has American Idol Had on Aerosmith’s Record Sales?

Prior to the premiere of AI’s Season 10 on January 19th, Aerosmith’s catalog sales were on the decline, selling fewer than 1,000 copies a week. That number has swelled to well over 2,000 per release. According to Nielsen SoundScan, sales of the band’s Greatest Hits collections have shot up more than 250%. Additionally, Aerosmith’s 1994 compilation Big Ones, saw increased sales of 260% after the show’s premiere. Likewise, 2004’s Devil’s Got a New Disguise: The Very Best of Aerosmith, saw a spike of 146% after week 2 of AI. Two more Greatest Hits collections registered surges of 137% and 147%.

The Verdict!

So, what have we learned? AI replaced Simon Cowell, Ellen Degeneres, and Kara Dioguardi after Season 9 with icons Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez and the future once again appears bright for FOX. Joe Perry and Kid Rock disagreed with Tyler’s decision to join the cast and they were dead wrong. Brad Whitford and Gene Simmons agreed with his choice and so far he has hit a “homerun.” With this amazing success, I would love to ask Joe Perry what he is thinking. Personally, I think this qualifies as a big-time pucker up moment.  Maye we’ll call this magical experience Honkin’ On Bobo. Long Live Steven Tyler and Long Live Aerosmith!

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