Timberlake's Grammy Idol

For someone who's had less than glowing words for the goings-on at American Idol, Justin Timberlake seems to have no problem participating in a copycat competition.


The four-time nominee has signed on to play a part in "My Grammy Moment," a competition sponsored by the Recording Academy that will allow unsigned talent the chance to compete for the career-launching pleasure of bringing the sexy back with Timberlake at this year's Grammys.

Would-be superstars cannot be currently signed to a recording contract, must be over 18 years of age, and, presumably buried in the fine print, must be able to "carry a tune in a bucket."

Singers must submit through Yahoo! Music a 60-second video of an a cappella version of one of the following ditties by Jan. 3: Alicia Keys' "If I Ain't Got You," Faith Hill's "Breathe," Tina Turner's "What's Love Got to Do with It," Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance with Somebody," Mariah Carey's "Vision of Love," Aretha Franklin's "Respect," and, for the fellas, "Luther Vandross' "Dance with My Father" or Timberlake's own "Cry Me a River."

The entrants will be judged by a blue-ribbon committee comprising singers, songwriters, producers and other industry VIPs.

A dozen will be named Jan. 8, at which point the masses will be able to view the submissions and further vet the wannabe pop stars down to five, then three, finalists.

At which point they're virtually all winners—the final three contestants will all be allowed to rehearse with Timberlake in the week leading up to the 49th Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 11.

"I'm happy to participate in this unique approach to discovering unsigned talent, but I'm only a piece of the puzzle," the FutureSex/LoveSounds singer said. "All of you contestants out there should look at this as more than just a chance to duet with me, because it's really an opportunity to begin your career as a superstar. And I'll be there to help coach you along."

Voting via Internet and text messaging will continue through the Grammy ceremony and the winner will be revealed live, when he or she takes the stage with Timberlake. It's unknown which song the newly formed twosome will sing.