Recent reports about Dr. Luke joining "American Idol" are false; the hit-maker will not be joining the reality show's 13th season.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the songwriter and producer will not be joining the show as the third judge, along with Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez. Lopez's return has not yet been officially announced, but her comeback has been unofficially confirmed.
Dr. Luke, whose real name is Lukasz Gottwald, is behind such mega-hits as Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone" and "My Life Would Suck Without You," Katy Perry's "I Kissed a Girl" and Pink's "Who Knew," among others.
Dr. Luke is not joining the show because of his exclusive deal with Sony Music. The writer/producer signed a gainful label deal in 2011 with the music company. Dr. Luke's record company, Kemosabe Records, is home to songwriter-turned-artist Bonnie McKee, rapper Juicy J and pop-urban artist Becky G, who said at the MTV Video Music Awards, "I think ["Idol"] is going to happen" for Luke. Alas, it cannot because Universal Music Group, Sony's competitor, holds the rights to "American Idol." Allowing Luke to judge and guide artists for another label would make little sense for Sony, who wants to retain their exclusive rights over Luke's remarkable hit-making talent.
A similar snag occurred with L.A. Reid, who could not be a judge on "Idol" due to a similar contractual agreement with Sony. The music executive then landed a gig on the "X Factor" instead, which has a recording partnership with Sony.
An insider close to Luke told The Hollywood Reporter that the commitment to be an "Idol" judge would have taken up too much of his time. "He really loves his artists and wants to build up the label," the source said. They added that Kemosabe is "on the cusp" of breaking Becky G, who is a top priority for the company. Luke also wants to "build an entertainment company."
Sony Music CEO Doug Morris said that taking Luke out of the running to be a judge on the show was "the best thing for all parties."
As for who could take the vacant judging spot, there are a number of music industry titans who are being considered. Justin Bieber is being considered, along with music manager Scooter Braun, who was suggested by Lopez. Braun label's deal is with UMG, which is simpatico with Sony. However, Braun is handling acts such as Psy, newcomer Ariana Grande and the boy band The Wanted, rendering Braun extremely busy.
"American Idol" will debut in 2014 on Fox. Auditions for the show will start in September.