Idol Chatter & Voice Views

I had asked Idol fans at the Kelly Clarkson and Bucky Covington concerts about the Idol judging change, so David Cook fans weren’t going to get off the hook.

Gotta tell you, based on what I’ve heard over the past week, it’s far from unanimous that the switch from Paula to Ellen is a good thing.

I’m thinking Ellen is a major upgrade and far better than some of the options Idol was apparently considering.

But, clearly, not everyone agrees.

Here’s what some of the fans at Friday night’s show had to say. You’ll find links to more Idol Chatter goodies from the York Fair at the bottom of this blog.

Lauren Reigart, 25, of Dover: “I think Ellen will be a little bit … well, more non-air-headed. I think there will be a little more content to what she has to say other than just, ‘You look pretty.'”

Phyllis Seitz of York: “She (Ellen) was on ‘So You Think You Can Dance,’ and she was great. She’ll be the people’s voice. And she’s a major Idol fan.”

Kara Bell, 15, of York: “I’m not going to watch it now, mainly because Paula is gone. Paula was my favorite judge. With her gone, it’s just not going to be the same.”

Katie Nace, 16, of York: “What does Ellen know about music? That’s the problem. I don’t think she does (know about music). Paula was the crazy judge. She didn’t always make sense, but what are they going to do without her?”

Sarah Kerstetter, 29, of New Bloomfield, Pa.: “I liked Paula just because we were used to her. Change is always good I suppose, but I really don’t care for Ellen’s show.”

Jessica Hummel, 24, of New Bloomfield, Pa.: “I like Ellen. She’ll bring humor to it. Paula brings knowledge and credibility because of her background. Ellen doesn’t have that kind of credibility. But it (the show) has been on for a while, and I think they needed a change.”

Lisa Hickman, 43, of Middletown, Del.: “I liked Paula. She brought a whimsical side to Idol. And she was very supportive of the contestants.”

Kristen Wolfe, 29, of Fawn Grove: “I think Paula was sincere for the contestants. She always gave them good advice without being mean.”

Alyssa Reigart, 22, of Dover: “I think Ellen will be good for the show. She has a good sense of humor. She’ll do fine as a judge.”

Erica Warren, 27, of York: “I love Ellen. I’m really excited about her being on the show. I’m a little bummed to see Paula go,” but she added that she’s looking forward to Ellen’s interaction with Simon.

Deb Chambers of York: “I love it. I love Ellen DeGeneres. I think it will be so cool.”

Bethany Blankenship, 15, of Round Hill, Va.: “I think Paula should have stayed. She made (the contestants) feel more confident because she was always behind them.”

Rebecca Ayers, 28, of New Park, Pa.: “I think Ellen will be great. It’ll be a lot of fun with her on the show, I think.”

Kristin Adams, 19, of Fawn Grove: “She’s going to bring so much life to the show,” she said of Ellen. “And she’s just a regular person in terms of music. She’s not from the music industry.”

Angela Boudah, 31, of Highspire, Pa.: “If Ellen isn’t going to do anything but make jokes, I’m not so sure. But if she’s going to take it seriously, I’m OK with it.”

Julia Bonner, 28, of Elizabethtown, Pa.: “I’m very excited about it. I think it’s terrific. She (Ellen) will bring a funny aspect to the show and, at the same time, she’s just a regular person, too.”

Now, for the links:

Fans at Kelly Clarkson show weigh in on Paula vs. Ellen

Fans at Bucky Covington show weigh in on Paula vs. Ellen

David Cook talks about his music and his upcoming album.

David Cook talks about those “not ready for public consumption” song snippets.

Kelly Clarkson wows wet fans at the York Fair.

Seven years later, fans are still loyal to Kelly Clarkson.

Bucky Covington rocks the fair’s country stage.

Bucky Covington talks about his career and his upcoming CD.