Going on reality TV shows such as Pop Idol and X Factor has been a big things recently. There is no shortage of people lining up to audition for these shows, with ques often going around the corner.
But how useful would one of these shows be for you, a serious musician? Well, that depends really.
The thing is, these shows can make or break you. Each one of these shows generates millions of viewers, all waiting to see the biggest talent rise to the top. As well as that however, they’re also ready to see the biggest joke acts the world has to offer!
This can be a potential downfall for some people. Unless you know you 100% know you have a talent that will stand up to the judge’s criticism, then I suggest you don’t go on one of these shows. If you come on and your singing is less then great, they’ll let you know about it. This wouldn’t be such a bad thing if it was just you and the judges (It’s always handy to know what level you’re currently at), but with thousands or millions of other people watching? You could become the joke of your town.
Should You Aim To Win The X Factor Or American Idol?
Another thing you need to think of is what your aim is for going on one of these programs. Do you plan on winning this show and taking the record deal they give you? Or do you plan on using the show for exposure then go off and have your own career? While winning one of these reality pop star shows sounds like a good idea, some times becoming the runner up could be better for you. A lot of these winners have a Christmas hit and a couple of singles after, then fade away. They’re then replaced next time the next version of the show is on.
In the book How To Win The X Factor, they actually say you don’t have to win the show in order to benefit. It’s often all about the exposure, and even getting in the top 5 could mean a lucrative music career for you. It’s all about how you use your time in the spotlight, and capitalising on that exposure to build up your fan base.
Will These Reality Shows Decrease Your Music’s Credibility?
So, will being on one of these shows reduce the credibility of the music you make? Well, that depends on the type of music you make. If it’s always been your aim to make pop music and you do it at a good level, then this type of show is perfect for you. You are in fact doing the best thing you can: Gaining a large targeted audience fast.
If however you make a more niche type of music that isn’t so mainstream, you could in fact be shooting yourself in the foot. Because you don’t make mainstream pop music, you may not be what the show’s judges are looking for as a singer. In other words you won’t go through. If people in your niche and your fans see that you tried and failed to do well on the X Factor, they could lose a lot of respect for you and questions how dedicated you are to their scene.
Conclusion, Should You Go On Music Reality Shows Such As American Idol Or X Factor?
Well, it really is down to you. If you feel that it fits into your overall music career aims, then go for it! You should only apply if you truly believe you are capable of being one of the top 20 singers, and people have given you honest feedback and also say the same. If you’re still brushing up your skills or don’t do pop music, then maybe this isn’t right for you.
These shows can generate you thousands of fans overnight, but they can also make you look less then credible. Choose wisely before you decide to go on one of these reality TV music shows, but if you do good luck.