From left, Host Ryan Seacrest, Judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez, and Harry Connick Jr., and executive producers Trish Kinane and Per Blankens are seen during the panel of “American Idol” at the FOX Winter 2014 TCA, on Monday, Jan. 13, 2014, at the Langham Hotel in Pasadena, Calif.By LYNN ELBER
AP Television Writer
PASADENA, Calif. – The producers of “American Idol” said Monday that the show’s new season will include changes to freshen it, including expanded song choices for contestants.
After tending toward a fair amount of golden oldies, the show’s song list will add more current tunes that the young contestants can relate to, executive producer Per Blankens said.
Former judge Randy Jackson’s new role will include leading a workshop that helps contestants deal with vocal and other challenges, executive producer Trish Kinane said.