American Idol - Can someone please explain the appeal?

The music press today is filled with the news that Paula Abdul has quit her job as a judge on American Idol. Taking on guest judge roles this upcoming season will be Katy Perry and Victoria Beckham.

You know what? I just don't get it.

I've never watched an episode of American Idol. Never. Not one. I really just don't understand the appeal of the show. Isn't it just a glorified talent show? I get embarrassed watching people in talent shows. Watching someone butcher another artist's song, and on national TV yet, makes me want to dive bomb under the couch until it's over. It seems completely mortifying. And then to be publicly criticized for it, again on a national level.... No thank you.

And let's take a look at the people doing the judging. The afore-mentioned Ms. Abdul, well, did she become a paragon of musical talent while I wasn't looking? She had some hits back in the day, but I personally think that had to do more with her videos and the fact that she was pretty more that bona fide talent. Yeah, she can dance, but her voice was more a matter of production rather than chops. She should have been a judge on one of the many dance shows instead of a show about singing. Randy Jackson was mostly known as a session musician before Idol. And Simon Cowell? Who the hell is he? Where did he come from? Is he just supposed to be the token nasty guy whose comments are supposed to push the contestants harder to prove him wrong? When's the last time he got up in front of millions and sang his ass off only to have someone tell him he's horrible?

Since I don't live under a rock, I know about some of the winners, or almost winners. Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood dominate popular radio, and I will admit to having purchased songs by Daughtry and David Cook from iTunes. A good singer is a good singer, no matter where they originated from. But I'll never become one of those people who pick their favorites early on and discuss each elimination each week as if it were a matter of life and death. I'd be too embarrassed.