‘American Idol’: Scott Borchetta Says Recording Clark Beckham’s Album Would Be ‘Interesting’
Making an album with American Idol hopeful Clark Beckham would be “interesting,” according to Big Machine Records President, and contestant mentor, Scott Borchetta.
Last week, the two were at odds over Beckham’s “Your Man” song choice. Clark firmly stood his ground, despite Borchetta’s warning that music like that would put him on a “fast-track to a Holiday Inn.” The 22-year-old’s risk paid off, as he was voted into the top three to battle it out for the big win.
“Should he win, it’s going to be an interesting record to make because he has a little different idea of what will work in the mainstream.”
Scott reinforced the fact that, as he mentioned after Beckham’s performance last week, he pushes the young artist because he cares. He explained to Taste of Country that it takes honesty to bring out the best in the contestants.
“Clark and I have always had a very honest relationship since day one. The reason I challenged Clark is because he’s so talented. And I want to see him do better.”
Borchetta maintains Beckham’s weakness is song choice and grasping what it takes to select a hit. He sternly pointed out in last week’s rehearsal that the show isn’t called “American Musician.” In response, the blues singer insisted in a passionate plea, that he strongly believes his fans want the type of music he’s delivering, and that he will never “forsake” that.
“While he’s a great singer, he doesn’t have a great understanding of what a hit song is. He doesn’t run toward hits.”
Borchetta has described himself as being “attracted to people who have a point of view.” He also said, “Great art comes from people with a point of view and are very passionate.” He was referring to the Quinten Alexander incident, but Clark fits that description as well. Can he balance his passion with an ability to take direction if he wins? According to the Idol mentor, you have to be willing to face your weaknesses in order to be great.
“In an artist’s world, you need to be black and white. If everybody tells you you’re great all the time, you become less great because you’re not challenged. All of my artists know that I’m going to call it like I see it, regardless of who they are.”
Billboard reported Borchetta has been very upfront about the hard work that’s ahead for the new Idol. He explained part of the reason he took each contestant to his Nashville headquarters was to give them a taste of the demands a successful music career will bring.
“On May 13th we are going to announce a winner, on May 14th I’m going to take one of them back to Nashville with me and then the real job starts. American Idol is not capable of anointing you a career. American Idol is capable of anointing you an opportunity. What you want to do with that opportunity has been part of my mission, to make them understand what it’s going to take.”
Many special guests are lined up for the big two night finale. We were informed during the clip of their Nashville trip that Jax is performing with Steven Tyler. Others listed to appear are, Vance Joy, Nile Rodgers, Janelle Monae, Echosmith, Fall Out Boy, New Kids on the Block, Pitbull, Prince Royce, Michael McDonald, Ricky Martin, Chris Brown, Jamie Foxx, and The Jacksons.
The American Idol finale is Tuesday at 8 p.m. CT/ 9 p.m. ET and Wednesday 7 p.m. CT/8 p.m. ET on Fox. Tune in to see if it’s Clark Beckham, Jax, or Nick Fradiani who will back to work in Nashville come Thursday.
[Image by Fox]
