IDOL BEAT: New ‘Idol' judge believes in second chances

 I had the chance to sit in on a phone conference with the new "American Idol" judge Kara DioGuardi on Jan. 8. I am excited about her addition to the judge's table; she brings a wealth of experience with her industry background, not only as a songwriter but as a producer as well.

DioGuardi's songs have been recorded by Natasha Bedingfield, Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Santana,  Pink and  the Jonas Brothers, just  to name a few of the diverse, talented singers utilizing her music!

Based on the auditions of Season 8, she thinks there are at least five to 10 strong men in the competition, compared to a couple of girls she is excited about. Soulfulness is how she described what the guys have, defining the soulful sound as Maroon 5 like, with at least one of them bringing a new style of genre to American Idol this year. 

Taking her job seriously, she said she looked at everyone, considered whether they were having an off day and gave second chances if she could; she believes in second chances. Giving thanks to her "Angels," several who gave her encouragement and guidance along the way in her career, she hopes she can do the same with constructive criticism and words of advice to get the singers started in their careers.

Feisty, upbeat, young and experienced, look for her to have a fresh take on this year's group of American Idol hopefuls!

The first episodes of "American Idol" started last week and will be on Tuesday and Wednesday again this week.

 SPOILER ALERT: An Osmond's son (as in the Osmond Brothers) and a sibling of one of the Season 7 "American Idol" finalists,