“American Idol” premiered its 11th season on Jan. 18 with the usual mixture of noteworthy and forgettable auditions, as well as banter between judges. Season premiere viewership was down 24 percent from the premiere last season, according to Nielsen ratings. The decrease in viewership may be a sign of the show’s lessening influence on pop culture. “Idol” has kept a relatively consistent show format, despite changes in judges. The success of other singing competition shows like “The Voice” on NBC may actually prove to be the show’s eventual downfall. “The Voice” will have its season premiere on Feb. 5 and future episodes of the show will air along with the current season of “Idol.” One potential problem with the format of the show is the lack of individuality and creativity. Focusing more on the use of musical instruments and developing the identities of each potential recording artist would set each performance apart. The album sales of the winners of previous ‘Idol’ seasons have been falling in recent years, possibly as a result of less variety in their musical style. Randy Jackson, Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez all returned this season as judges, with Ryan Seacrest continuing as the host. Auditions for this season so far have been in Georgia, Pennsylvania, California, Colorado and Texas. Past “Idol” contestant Colton Dixon returned this season after he fell short of making the Top 24 last season. His audition was unexpectedly performed after his sister, Schyler Dixon, gave her own exceptional rendition of “Breakeven.” Both were given golden tickets in Savannah on the Jan. 18 episode. Shaun Kraisman, look-a-like of Ryan Seacrest, also auditioned in Savannah on the season premiere episode. Kraisman did not get through to the next round, but did receive praise for his likeness to Seacrest. Jane Carrey, daughter of actor Jim Carrey, was sent to the Hollywood round of the competition after her performance of “Something to Talk About” in San Diego on the Jan. 22 episode. Carrey’s appearance on the show as the child of a famous actor and comedian may give the show a ratings boost by the end of the season if Carrey remains as a competitor. The Jan. 22 episode also sent Ali Shields, who appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” following her viral YouTube video, through to Hollywood. Shelby Tweeten, who suffers from bipolar disorder and depression, sang Carrie Underwood’s “Temporary Home” in Aspen on the Jan. 25 episode. Her incredible story of determination and outstanding performance got her one step closer to potentially becoming the next winner of “Idol.” “Idol” hopeful Jenni Schick seemed more interested in kissing Steven Tyler during her audition in Aspen. She ended up getting a ticket to Hollywood and a kiss from Tyler. Auditions in Galveston on the Jan. 26 episode featured Kristine Osorio, mother of three children who is going through a divorce. Osorio’s strong singing of Adele’s “One and Only” got her through to the next round and was a touching reminder of how the show can be a great influence on someone’s life. Ramiro Garcia, who also auditioned in Galveston, shared his remarkable story of being born without ears. His powerful rendition of “Amazing Grace” gave him three “yes” votes from the judges. “Idol” continues its audition process in Missouri, Oregon and New Jersey on upcoming episodes. The Hollywood rounds begin on Feb. 9 and continue until the top finalists are chosen for the live shows. The talent this season has the potential to bring unique music that is fresh and exciting. Jackson, Tyler and Lopez will need to be tough but fair in Hollywood in their judging to find the right contestants. In its eleventh season, the show also needs to follow current trends in music and pop culture in order stay relevant and bring back some of the show’s support, particularly with younger audiences. “American Idol” currently airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays on FOX.