X-Factor Partnership with Front Line Management

A few months ago, I had written a comparative blog on the musician reality shows, American Idol and The Voice.  Despite the basic concept of giving amateur artists a chance to compete for a lucrative record deal, these shows have found much acclaimed success.  Due to their success, it seems that many other music industry and television executives are trying to jump on board the bandwagon to gain a profit.  The X Factor is no different.  Debuting in the United Kingdom in 2004, The X Factor is now being brought to the United States and will include Idol’s own Simon Cowell as producer and judge on the show.  Many of these shows have aided the success of several of today’s popular artists but no one ever gives an in-depth view of the labels and artists' management behind the talent.

                                                                                                                   

According to a PRNewswire article (2011), Front Line Management and Syco Entertainment have agreed upon a partnership to ensure the winner and/or winners of the series, will be managed by Front Line Management.  Simon Cowell, who rarely gives a compliment (based on his stint with American Idol), is quite happy with the arrangement for the artists on the show.  Cowell stated, “It is really important that the contestants have world class representation, and Irving (Azoff, Chairman and CEO of the Front Line Management Group) brings that” (2011).  Azoff, co-founder of Front Line Management Companies, is management mogul in the industry.  He personally managed the Eagles and his company now handles artists such as Christina Aguilera, Glee, Jennifer Hudson and Journey.

With artists like these already in place under Front Line, it is no wonder, their company was sought after for this partnership with The X-Factor.  Azoff, also shares in the excitement of the partnership, “I’m proud to be involved with Simon Cowell and X-Factor.  The Front Line team is excited to mentor this next generation of superstars,” (2011).  I have to say I’m interested to see what Azoff and his team will do with the winner!

The X-Factor is due to air on Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 8pm EST.


http://www.bradenton.com/2011/08/04/3399087/front-line-management-and-syco.html
http://www.fox.com/thexfactor/