As it is usual, in January a new season of American Idol kicks off. I had been so turned off by the show a few years back (can you say Nicki and Mariah?) that I stopped watching. But last night through a fluke, I turned to the Fox network (I never watch Fox), and the show was on.

Boy, was I glad! American Idol is back!

It was like the sun came out again on this show. The hosts were fun and upbeat, the guests were interesting and talented, and there was a whole less hype. It was held in Nashville, and as a Mid Southerner, that had to be a good thing. If the rest of the American Idol season 14 goes this well, I am going to be viewing every week.

Here are the ones that stood out to me (yes, I kept a list)-

Riley from Spring Hill, a young man who certainly has talent and good looks.

Cameron who sang in tune.

Amber Walker from my hometown, Memphis TN who in her words came from the hard part of town. Her story made me cry. I feel like she doesn’t have a chance past Hollywood, but she shined last night. Who wouldn’t like a girl who sang Elvis because she could?

Michael Simeon who actually got a ticket to Hollywood, danced with JLo, and had his own hashtag, #idolslowdance. This kid goes to Ole Miss. He won my heart.

Emily Brooke who was the one the hosts felt had the most talent. She is a pretty girl, and with her ability to sing, she could go far.

Well, there ya have it folks. My standouts from night one. Tonight is night two, and maybe I will come back with an update. Depends on who makes me look up from my Kindle.