American Idol changed my life. I’ve written multiple essays on this very statement over the years, but I’ve never been able to fully express just how much of an impact this televised singing competition has had on me since 2002 (and specifically the last eight years).

Besides the usual suspects (Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Chris Daughtry), Idol introduced me to many of my favourite artists today, including David Cook, David Archuleta, Brooke White, Kris Allen, Adam Lambert, Haley Reinhart, Casey Abrams, Phillip Phillips, and last but never least, the late and great Michael Johns. The unique talents that have emerged from this show over the past fifteen years have made me sit up and listen to their creative takes on modern music with fresh and eager ears. They’ve also opened my eyes up to a global community of music lovers, and the connections I’ve made with fellow Idol fans have turned into some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever been blessed to have.

As Season 15 premieres tonight and begins the search for the last American Idol, I hope that this final season will be a fine and fond send-off for the Idol series, with a solid cast, a worthy winner to bookend Kelly Clarkson, and a huge celebration of all the years of memories that have gone by.

To me, Idol was more than just a game. It was a game-changer. Following this show has been a crazy and unforgettable ride, and I’m excited to tune into (and blog about) this farewell season with all of the Idoloonies out there.

Because this…. is American Idol! Dim the lights, Kieran, and here we go…

Image Credit: Fox