Some covers are horrific, but then so are some originals.

Touché!!

You are dead right about "the formula" which is why I hate those shows that try to create the next big thing. It is much better when it happens organically and there is a story of substance there instead of being groomed into stardom by some record producer or executive..

You do get the odd gem though, I was watching this with the kids a few weeks ago and was blown away by this young lad's voice... Incredible.