So there's this show called X Factor in the UK, right?  It's their version of American Idol. Anyhow, some girl named Alexandra Burke won last night, and she got to perform "Listen" from Dreamgirls with Beyonce.  Fierce, right?  I can't imagine someone like Beyonce being on Idol; X Factor just knows how to bring in the stars!  Anyhow, it's a great performance.  Alexandra is good--a little flat on some of her high notes--but good.  Beyonce is fierce.

Speaking of American Idol, it looks like we are in for some changes this season.  There's apparently going to be less focus on the auditions and more on the Hollywood rounds; 36 finalists will be chosen instead of the usual 24.  Also, they're bringing back the wildcard choice, in which each judge gets to pick one finalist who wouldn't have made it otherwise.  I like it.

I can't even bring myself to listen to the rest of Kanye's performance of "Heartless" on SNL the other night...  It's horrible.  Dear Kayne: you're not a singer.  Love, Matt.

NBC is bringing a new dance show to its lineup in early 2009.  It's called Superstars of Dance, and it pits teams from different countries against one another.  Each team is comprised of two solo dancers, one couple, and one larger group.  Interesting. 

Final Thought: Here is all you ever wanted to know about the scheduling of the upcoming season of Idol...

Grammy Time!

Well, almost.  

The Grammy nominations were announced at a live concert event this past week, and my girl Jennifer Hudson wound up with FOUR nominations!!!

*Best R&B Album, Jennifer Hudson

*Best R&B Song, "Spotlight"

*Best R&B Performance By A Duo or Group, "I'm His Only Woman," with Fantasia

*Best Female R&B Performance, "Spotlight"

Other reality TV alums receiving nods include Jordin Sparks ("No Air," duet with Chris Brown, Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals), Leona Lewis from the UK's X Factor ("Bleeding Love," Record of the Year), and Carrie Underwood ("Last Name," Best Female Country Vocal Performance).  Congrats!