As American Idol Struggles With Judges Replacement, Randy Jackson Lands 'Hot' Production Gig With Smokey Robinson
While "American Idol" is fumbling to find a new team of judges for season 14, recently departed Randy Jackson has found a new producing gig with Motown singer Smokey Robinson.
"Randy Jackson is a longtime friend, a great musician and an amazing, experienced record producer," says Robinson according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"I'm honored and very happy to be working with him. He's my brother."
Following the recent "American Idol" shake-up which involved the exit of Jackson, co-judges Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey, executive producers Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick, these are some much needed words of comfort.
Recently, rumors have been swirling that season 14 will be the first season an "American Idol" alum will judge the new crop of auditioning talents.
According to RealityTVWorld, the list of potential and rumored candidates includes Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson, Adam Lambert, and Clay Aiken.
But Jackson is past all that.
"It's my utmost pleasure to produce this amazing duets record with the legend Smokey Robinson," says the 57-year-old music producer.
"He is one of the most incredible songwriters of all time. It's going to be hot!"
The album is expected to include songs by Robinson as well as his former group The Miracles. It will be Robinson's 29th album release, and his first release with Verve Records.