Idol Stalker - Watching American Idol

Justin Guarini Weighs in on Idol, Reveals New Projects

Posted: 07 May 2009 11:12 AM PDT

This morning, I was fortunate enough to have a great chat with Justin Guarini who you probably know best from the first season of American Idol and as the host of TV Guide's Idol Tonight.

I have to say that Justin was probably one of the most fun interviews I've ever done and he had a lot to tell me so I'll just get right to it!

We talked about the current season of American Idol and he said that it's "been a pretty amazing year. It was the first time ever that the show had four judges, the judges save, which was a gentle rebuke of American opinion, and the first time contestants performed duets." He's absolutely right! When you look at it that way, it really has been an amazing season (whether you liked it or not!)!

When I asked about Paula Abdul's performance last night, he said that he thought it was "absolutely awesome that she could do that after all the struggles and all the battles she's had. It just goes to show you what Paula Abdul is made of."

I was curious about what he thought of the new fourth judge, Kara DioGuardi. He said "Kara has been a great addition to the panel because she combines the strengths of all the judges." He's got a point!

I mentioned that I briefly saw him at the private opening of the American Idol Experience and asked him what he thought of the event. He said that he loved it and added: "I get to be in front of 30,000+ people a week as the virtual host of the pre-show." I don't know if any of you have been through the attraction but I'd agree that being the virtual host is pretty cool. He also mentioned that he got engaged while filming that footage and said that the wedding planning is going well and that he and his fiancée, Reina, would be getting married next spring.

I wanted to know about his video blog on Fancast and he explained that he adds videos twice a week and that he really enjoys it because "it's just personal. No glitz, no glam." I agree. I love video blogs because it does feel like you're seeing a more "human" side of celebs. Know what I mean? Check out Justin on Fancast!

Justin also talked about the demo called "I Can't Live" which he wrote with Nashville songwriters, Shaye Smith and Tammy Hyler. They were all together talking about the Twilight books and ended up writing a song that they have submitted for consideration for the New Moon soundtrack.

I personally think it's pretty great and I hope it gets included. I love the fact that it was actually inspired by the storyline versus being added just because it's a big name band (sorry, but "Decode" by Paramore for the first movie really made no sense to me even though I actually liked the song). Take a listen and let me know what you think (remember, it's a demo so it's not perfect).

Justin revealed that he is working on a new project for "The JG Show" which will be 12-minute webisodes featuring Chappelle's Show-style skits and more. He's also working on his third album so I am hoping to talk to him again about both of these exciting things that he's working on.

Need more Justin in your life? Here are some links: