Ray Chew Named Music Director For 'American Idol'

Ray Chew

"AMERICAN IDOL" has a new music director for its upcoming 10th season. THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER reports that RAY CHEW, a veteran of television music shows, will succeed RICKEY MINOR, who left to lead "THE TONIGHT SHOW" band at the end of Season 9.

CHEW's resume includes stints as bandleader and musical director for such programs as NBC's "IT'S SHOWTIME AT THE APOLLO" and "THE SINGING BEE." He also oversaw the music for the 2008 Democratic National Convention and BARACK OBAMA's inaugural ball. the latter featured performances by MARY J. BLIGE, SHAKIRA, MARIAH CAREY, STEVIE WONDER, STING and BEYONCE as the first couple had their first dance.

He has also worked with ARETHA FRANKLIN, DIANA ROSS, GLADYS KNIGHT and ALICIA KEYS. More recently, he performed alongside Rihanna as the pianist and conductor on her worldwide hit, "Unfaithful."

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