Now that Fremantle Media (producers of American Idol) have already established the “Can You Duet” brand in 2008, it’s no surprise to see the series return to the small screen in 2009.

Joey and Rory, Caitlin and Will and The Coppollas all secured record deals from the last season.

Auditions were held on March 7th at Nashville’s WildHorse Saloon and were attended by close to 5000 contestants. The judges have been announced and are not entirely the same team as last year.

Season 1’s panel of experts were Brett Manning, Aimee Mayo and Naomi Judd (complete with limo driver and lap dog). This year Taylor Swift’s partner in crime, Scott Borchetta joins Big Kenny (from Big and Rich) and one half of the never aging Judds - Naomi Judd. Forums and blogs have been littered with comments regarding the credibility of the judges particularly when it comes to vocal ability, but the public will make up their own minds when the show premiers in June, 2009.

Budding stars had 2 options - either submit a recorded video submission, or turn up at the open casting call. The first round of cuts was made by the producers and the contestants didn’t see the 3 judges until much later.

There were a lot of talented people who entered the Can You Duet competition. Some made it through to the finals and some didn’t. The styles of the competitors was also quite varied. It ranged from married couples, mother and daughters, two girl groups, two boy groups, twins, brothers, fathers and sons and singles who didn’t even know each other until they met in the line.

All episodes of the show have already been filmed and hence the audience who attended the tapings know the results of the show.

The taping dates were April 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 24 and 30 and the show began around 8pm.

Check out all the drama when the series premiers in June. Keep an eye on The Stellas, Husband and Wife team O’Shea, Thompson Square, Chelsea and Rob and Steel Magnolia.

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