Eurovision is coming to NBC. Well, sort of. In a new announcement, the network has revealed American Song Contest (based on the international show Eurovision Song Contest) will premiere in March of this year, with Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson set to host.
Premiering 65 years ago, the Eurovision Song Contest has become one of the biggest singing competitions in the entire world. The program is viewed by 200 million people every year and is organized by the European Broadcasting Union.
While we in the states have had success with shows like American Idol and The Voice, we have not had anything quite like Eurovision yet, which features original, live music as competitors go head to head for best song.
Now, with American Song Contest, we are getting just that.
The show was teased with a Super Bowl spot as well, with Snoop and Clarkson breaking down the premise. Dogg teases in the preview, “Every great song has its own kind of vibe, just like the streets they come from.”
Clarkson adds, “Now, all of that music from across America will go head to head.” They both continue to tease it as, “the biggest televised music event you’ve ever seen.”
The official description, per the press release, reads, “American Song Contest will feature live new music performances – representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories, and our nation’s capital – competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song.
An incredible solo artist, duo or a band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America. The live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.”
In a statement, Snoop shared regarding his excitement about the project.
“I am honored to host ‘American Song Contest’ alongside my lil sis Kelly Clarkson, aka Miss Texas ??????.”
Clarkson also released a statement, sharing, “I have been a fan and love the concept of Eurovision and am thrilled to bring the musical phenomenon to America.” She added, “I’m so excited to work with Snoop and can’t wait to see every state and territory represented by artists singing their own songs.”
This is not the first time the two artists have collaborated together for a singing competition series. Clarkson, who is currently a judge on NBC’s The Voice, was on the series when Snoop appeared as a mega-mentor in season 20.
American Song Contest will premiere March 21, 8-10 p.m. ET/PT, airing from the NBCUniversal lot.
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