With the new season of AMERICAN IDOL just weeks away, there is the feel that things are going to be different.  The way you vote your favorites into the finals is changing… no more “boys night” and “girls night.”  And you’ll start voting when there are 36 contestants left, not 24. 

But probably the biggest shock is that there’s a new judge on the panel.  Her name is KARA DIOGUARDI… she’s got a strong background, she’s written a ton of hit songs and according to the one guy who’d know best – RYAN SEACREST – she’s brought out the best in SIMON COWELL.  (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR BELOW)