Underwood wonAmerican IdolSeason 4 back in 2005 with her powerful vocals and country charm.

But theres no denying that since then, the show hasgone through an evolution.

This balance created an environment whereall genres could thriveand all singers had equal opportunities to showcase their talent.

Crews Wright, country singer from Samson, Alabama, gets down during the 2025 season premiere of

Image via Eric McCandless/Disney

However, they obviouslybrought a more genre-specific perspective to the panel.

“It was like I’d heard it for the first time.”

Ultimately,they were sidelinedif they couldnt perform country music well.

American-Idol-JMarie

Image via ABC

As biased as this approach is, it alsoeats into the entertainment value of the show.

Theres no element of surprise inAmerican Idolanymore because more often than not,country music singers overshadowother deserving artists.

Carrie Underwood in ‘American Idol’

Image via ABC

Josh King performs during Idol Arena during Hollywood Week on ‘American Idol’ Season 23.

Image via ABC

American Idol Season 21 Poster

Twelve American finalists (six men and six women) compete in a singing contest.

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American Idol