Nothing breeds talent quite like cable access television.

Starting in 1979, Brooklyn resident Frank Masi created and hosted a program on local New York television called Stairway To Stardom. Filmed in what appeared to be a freshly carpeted Staten Island basement, Stairway was an especially early, low-budget predecessor to Star Search and American Idol, but sprinkled with the key element of hometown appeal.

I admit it. I get suckered into watching American Idol each season. I'm not a true addict -- I neither vote, nor do I buy any of the music put out by the winners. Well, except for Melinda Doolittle. But she didn't win, nor really come extremely close. But, I have to ask myself ... is there enough time in my life to get into watching yet another singing contest show?

You see, NBC has a project tentatively slated for either the summer or fall season called The Sing-Off. It wouldn't be airing during the AI season. That's a plus. It's a cappella. That could be interesting. But, aren't they a bit "too little, too late" if they're trying to jump on the popularity of American Idol? Like Idol, there would be judges and voting. The winner would receive a Sony Music recording contract.