John Rich is celebrating lucky number-six. The country singer-songwriter-producer extraordinaire sits at the center of the judges' table on what is currently Monday night's most popular television show,
'Nashville Star.' The reality talent competition is in its sixth season but its first on a major television network, thus its first with enviable ratings. It's a popularity boost that Rich says does wonders for his own agenda, as well as for the music that he loves so deeply.
The Boot sat down with the notoriously opinionated Rich to talk about what exactly is at stake for him with the show and what he says makes it a more credible program than 'American Idol.' We also get his candid commentary on fellow judges
Jewel and
Jeffrey Steele, as well as his hints into the true personality of the show's host,
Billy Ray Cyrus.
What makes 'Nashville Star' standout from other reality talent shows?We're not looking for a great singer, we're looking for a great artist. There's a difference, in my opinion. Not many people consider
Kris Kristofferson a great singer, but I think everyone considers him a great artist. He's a great songwriter; he connects with the audience; he knows how to emote -- to make a lyric kick you right in the chest. That's what I'm looking for.