The hit summer sensation, The Singing Bee, has finally sung its way into the fall.  Tonight, the karaoke-spelling bee-style competition will be returning on NBC at 8pm ET/PT to kickoff another season packed with fresh new twists and exciting musical performers, along with host Joey Fatone, house band Ray Chew and the Groove and the dancing Honey Bees.

Gracing tonight's episode is Toni Basil, who will be participating in a “One Hit Wonders” theme marking premiere.  Also known as Antonia Christina Basilotta, the 64-year-old singer is best known for her music video Mickey, and for serving as a choreographer for movies like American Graffiti, The Rose, and Legally Blonde.

In addition to Basil, the fall season of The Singing Bee will also feature a roster of iconic and notable musical talents, both past and present.  Next week, the program will highlight the classic pieces of Paul McCartney and John Lennon.  On October 16, the Village People will be gracing the show, singer Barry Manilow will be part of a special installment dedicated to unforgettable love songs on October 23, and Ray Parker Jr. will be joining the Halloween-inspired episode on October 30.

The following month, the all-girls group, The Bangles, is set to appear on November 13 while the program's December 4 installment will draw attention to everyone's favorite television theme songs with a bunch of surprises in store.

A number of changes that will be featured in each of the upcoming episodes are another thing to watch out for, besides the new guest line up this season.  Brand new karaoke-style games will be unveiled that will challenge participants and test their skills.  Moreover, all winners will now be given the opportunity to return for the next show and defend their crown without limit to the number of times they can repeat as champion and keep hold of The Singing Bee trophy.  Last but not the least, a new and improved set will also be used coincide with this season's changes and to increase viewer enjoyment.


-Kris De Leon, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: NBC
(Image courtesy of MSN)