Mariah Carey vs Nicki Minaj not ‘American Idol’s’ biggest hook

Who will be the better judge: Mariah Carey or Nicki Minaj?

Clearly, this was the question viewers want answered during the season 12 premiere of “American Idol,” which aired in the Philippines on Thursday, January 17.

If we’re to base it on the buzz surrounding the show (after all, the episode where the reported confrontation between the two is yet to air), it may be the show’s biggest hook this season.

Proof: Team Mariah versusTeam Nicki was the theme of the “American Idol” season 12 premiere special screening of Star World at the URBN Bar and Kitchen in Taguig Bar, where the entertainment media were asked to choose between the “Super Bass” star and the “We Belong Together” diva (Mariah was the clear favorite).

But watching the premiere, it turns out the diva-off isn’t the season’s biggest draw; the show’s best bet to proving it is indeed the reality singing show to beat is the chemistry of the “American Idol” judging panel.

For years, “Idol” has suffered due to its judges. During his last season on the show (a year that churned out arguably the least successful set of “Idol” alumni), Simon Cowell (who produces and judges “The X Factor” US) showed a lack of interest towards the contestants as he rattled off insults and catchphrases that had worn off their welcome. Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler revitalized the show when Simon left, but rarely offered any genuine criticism.

The often-loopy Paula Adbul had given more useful comments to contestants than both of them combined. At her worst, her comments were entertaining—a sharp contrast to the predictability that invades the show’s judging panel.

And the less said about Kara DioGuardi and Ellen DeGeneres, the better.

Tough and lucid

During the premiere, Nicki proved she’s capable of tough and lucid criticism. Don’t let her multi-colored hair fool you; the hip-hop artist was capable of telling hopefuls they need a year or two more before they can become worthy contenders for the “Idol” crown.

“It won’t be your only chance unless you tell yourself it’s your only chance,” Nicki told another contestant.

Mariah, at least based on the show’s first episode, appeared a bit distanced from the proceedings, but she shows a sense of humor that’s always good for reality television. It’s during the second episode where the diva really picks it up, offering quips like “This is what I deal with when I come to my job” when Nicki referenced their rivalry.

The third new judge Keith Urban doesn’t really get a lot of press around these parts, but the country singer is also a revelation. He looked invested and was sincere with his criticism. Randy Jackson, the veteran “Idol”judge, didn’t really offer anything new. But who was expecting that from him anyway, 12 years into these proceedings?

In any case, the three new judges’ real ability will be tested come the live shows once they’ve chosen their top 24 contestants. As it is, they manage to come off judges rather than boring and predictable cheerleaders ala Jennifer and Steven.

Real charm

Of course, the real charm of “American Idol” is its contestants. Have we seen the next Phil Phillips and Jessica Sanchez during the first episode? Who’s to say, although the show has already given viewers an interesting mix of “Idol” hopefuls?

The feature on Indian Gunpreet Singh Sarin had the entertainment press in stitches (the joke about his turban may border on insensitive, but “Idol” is known for this kind of humor)—until he sang “Sunday Morning.” Will he be this season’s Anoop Desai or Heejun Han or could he be a contender for the crown?

Ashlee Feliciano, meanwhile, should be praised for singing the “Idol” favorite “Put Your Records On” and making it sound fresh. (“Idol”fans should know that the song is one of the most covered on the show).

In any case, “American Idol” remains the show that aims to find the next music superstar. Is that still possible?

Last season, “Idol” scored a major hit with Phil Phillips’ coronation song “Home” (which sold almost four million copies in less than a year, making it the best-selling“Idol” coronation song so far). The fact may be strike a sour note for fans of Jessica Sanchez, but she has her share of victories after her “Idol” run.

The half-Pinay’s upcoming stint on the musical-comedy “Glee” is nothing to sneeze at, either.

“Idol” may be about Mariah versus Nicki now, but it will soon be about the next Phil versus Jessica.

“American Idol” airs Thursdays and Fridays on Star World.

Editor's note: The blogger's views do not represent Yahoo! Southeast Asia's position on the topic or issue being discussed.