The Best Singing Competition Shows Ever Made
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It’s almost impossible to turn on a television these days and not find a reality television program of some sort. Ever since the great Writer’s Strike of 2007, so-called “unscripted” television has taken over, and it isn’t showing any sign of stopping. One of the many popular genres in the field is the singing competition show. These are programs made to challenge people’s skills at singing by diving into numerous styles and genres of music with the winner often taking home a ton of cash, recognition in the industry, and sometimes, a record contract.
Competition shows have been around forever with talent searching platforms like Star Search often focusing on music. While that show is certainly legendary, it wasn’t 100% about the music, which is why this list is focused on only those competitive shows that center entirely on singing. Shows like American Idol and The Voice are obvious contenders, but there are other more amazing series out there you may not have seen!
There truly are tons of examples of this genre, many from the UK, but not all singing competition shows are as good as the tracks they produce. There’s so much to choose from, but there are a few series that are considerably better than others thanks to the intense competition found in each episode. This list highlights the very best reality TV shows in the singing competition genre so don't forget to vote up your favorites. Then, check out shows about music that aren't competition shows - some of which feature faces you'll recognize from singing competitions.
- 1Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Carson Daly
- Premiered: April 26, 2011
- Network: NBC
The Voice has undoubtedly struck a chord with audiences since its debut in 2011, with its iconic swivel chairs and blind auditions. Hosted by Carson Daly, the show boasts a star-studded panel of coaches, including the likes of Blake Shelton, Adam Levine, and Kelly Clarkson. The Voice has given rise to notable contestants such as Cassadee Pope and Jordan Smith, who have gone on to carve out successful careers in the music industry. This singing competition show has truly left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, and it doesn't seem to be losing steam anytime soon.
The Signing is a captivating singing competition that has taken the world by storm, thanks to its talented contestants, engaging format, and unforgettable performances. The show has quickly become a must-watch for music lovers everywhere, with aspiring artists vying for the chance to make their mark on the world stage. With each passing season, The Signing continues to impress with its star-making potential and undeniable entertainment value.
My Kind of Country is a singing competition that celebrates the rich tradition of country music, showcasing the talents of aspiring country artists. With its focus on the genre and its commitment to promoting the next generation of country stars, My Kind of Country has become a must-watch for fans of the genre and those who appreciate the timeless appeal of a good country tune.
- 4Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, Ryan Seacrest
- Premiered: January 21, 2003
- Network: FOX, ABC
American Idol, a trailblazer in the world of singing competitions, has been churning out chart-topping stars since its inception in 2002. Ryan Seacrest has been the face of the show, hosting it through thick and thin. The judging panel has seen an array of music industry heavyweights, from Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul to Katy Perry and Lionel Richie. With winners like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Jennifer Hudson, the show has certainly earned its stripes as a star-making machine.
- 5
The Four: Battle for Stardom
Fergie, Sean Combs, DJ Khaled- Premiered: December 31, 2017
- Network: FOX
The Four: Battle for Stardom is a cutthroat singing competition that pits four talented artists against one another in a bid to secure their spot on the show. Hosted by Fergie, with judges like Sean "Diddy" Combs, DJ Khaled, and Meghan Trainor, the show has seen its fair share of nail-biting showdowns and emotional eliminations. The Four has proven itself to be a formidable contender in the world of singing competition shows, with contestants vying for the chance to be crowned the next breakout star.
Banded, an engaging reality series, followed the formation of a new boy band as they navigated the ups and downs of the music industry. Under the guidance of music producer David Foster, the group honed their skills, developed their sound, and learned the importance of teamwork. As the series progressed, the band members demonstrated that with perseverance and camaraderie, they could overcome obstacles and strive for success in the competitive world of music.
