You're right Doug: I'm not an Iron Maiden fan by any stretch of the imagination, nor am I a fan of Sammy Hagar solo, Van Halen no matter who is singing lead, or the song in general. You're also right that even though I am not fans of those artists I can tell that they are far and away better than this American Idol douche bag. That is the main reason why I won't ever watch that stupid show for a full episode (I have heard glimpses as my mother was a fan and I have had friends who were/are fans); these kids are simply not talented.
It's quite telling that the most successful of the Idol alum have gone on to do Country. Country music as it is today has become soulless, jingoistic, Corporate Machine-made tripe with a fine coat of gloss and that is the kind of shit they try to do on this show. It doesn't matter if these contestants can't do more than sing karaoke because the modern country loving, flag waving, Bible banging, Toby Keith worshiping, "love it or leave it" types have no ear for good music no matter what the genre. The Outlaws of Country like Johnny, Willie, Waylon etc. wouldn't be able to score a record deal if they were coming up in modern times.
Liz, what I meant is that the Backstreet Boys type of music (which is absolutely rancid) was made for pre-teen little girls (which I am guessing you were when it came out) so I can't really clown you for it. It was made for you and you liked it. If you were older or male I would seriously be clowning you for it.