'American Idol' creator Simon Fuller visiting Mumbai to find gen-next desi pop idol, to be part of an 11-member band from different countries
Simon Fuller
Simon Fuller
Spice Girls mentor and the creator of Americal Idol will be in India on December 21 to kickstart his hunt to find the Indian popstar who will join his ambitious global pop band Now United.
ADVERTISEMENT
Speaking to us from Korea, where she is auditioning horde of contenders, Yonta Taiwo, the project manager and head of casting told us that coming to India will be the most interesting leg for her.
"It is mystical land of culture, art, dance, music and of course, the influence of Bollywood is significant. Besides these attributes, it is significantly traditional. We are looking for an Indian pop star, could be a boy or girl, between the age of 16 and 19. He/she must have an exceptional ability to dance and sing teamed with a passion to represent their country on a global stage. They will eventually be part of the group that will travel around the world to celebrate the diversity of music," she says.
She hopes artistes from different cultures find a common bonding point in music. "Music is a great way to unite people and cultures. What I would like to clarify is that this project is not another reality TV show or talent hunt show. It is authentically novel. Simon wants to unite an 11 member mix group where he will bring together people from various countries including Japan, Korea, China, UK, US, Mexico, India, Brazil. What is unique here is that the band will be for the 21st century that caters to this generation, the one that is born into the digital age. It will be unlike any other pop group before."
How will it be different?
"Two decades ago, there was no social media. But Simon's success rate of 30 years is incredible which is what makes us believe he could incite reinvention of how we view entertainment today. He is going to incorporate his experience with the Spice Girls but Now United will be open to fans who will have access to the group which was never possible before."
Elaborating on the India schedule, she informed, "The first round begins in Mumbai on 21st. It is nation wide hunt for that one pop star. We will come back in mid-January for a second round of auditions, which will showcase the best talent from those selected. We are getting a great first hand response from Bosco Martis, who is a Bollywood choreographer who will help us navigate the Indian market better. He will be watching and advising us with the selection. Fuller is personally looking into each audition."
Bosco speaks
"India has immense talent. Youngsters today have a good understanding of performing arts which brings them at par with talent all across the world. I am confident that an Indian would bring a totally different flavour to the entire pop band. To be on the top of my list the contestant must not only be a great dancer or singer but should be passionate about the whole idea. If I feel the performance I think the contestant have the edge to be part of the world's first global pop bands."
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
