(I’m creating a separate blog entry for this just so folks can find it easier down the road though it’s going to be quickly superseded by the results show entry.)

Mark your calendars. Locally, the “Idols Live” tour will return to the Gwinnett Arena for the fourth year in a row, this year August 18. Ticket info forthcoming.

“Idols Live” will feature fewer duets and group sings and more solo work, according to a story in USA Today..

From the exclusive USA Today story:

Using extensive lighting and giant video screens, producers are aiming to “create a distinct mood for each singer,” Pirie says. Artists will be “encouraged to play an instrument only if it’s appropriate to them.”

Though some of the 10 have songwriting credits, concertgoers won’t be treated to any of their originals this summer. “We really want the experience to echo the television show, so expect to hear a lot of the songs that did well during the season,” says Iain Pirie, head of 19 Recordings U.S., which organizes the tour.