Netflix has announced the release its latest reality competition series Building the Band, set to premiere its first four episodes July 9th on the global streaming platform. The series will be hosted by Backstreet Boys alum AJ Mclean with recording artist and Tony Award winner Nicole Scherzinger serving as mentor and judge, alongside guest judges Kelly Rowland and the late Liam Payne.
Netflix seems to be capitalizing on the popularity of its hit dating series Love Is Blind by having contestants form a band without seeing each other, going only off their vocal talent. The series is described in Netflix’s official synopsis as “a truly unique competition show where building the perfect band is all about chemistry. The singers are in complete control as they seek to form their very own bands in individual ‘booths’ without ever seeing each other. All they have to go on is musical compatibility, connection, chemistry and merit.”
The first look, which you can watch below, previews the decision-making process with a contestant performing a song of their choice as the rest of the hopefuls only listen in to decide whether or not they want them in their band lineup. “What will happen when the bands finally meet, and looks, choreography, and style come into play?” the synopsis continues.
While some contestants wish to form a girl group, others want to make the next Backstreet Boys, and some form together the next Black Eyes Peas. One contestant states, “People could say, ‘I don’t want a plus size girl in my group’ and then they’ll miss out on the fact that I’m a great singer.”
Netflix fans already seem excited for the new series, with YouTube comments having overall hopes for the show. User @iworkhard2013 said “Netflix… this might be another original hit.”, and @Mrs_Bonnee writing, “Seems like a mashup of Love is Blind and Making the Band“. The latter series from ABC/MTV formed groups O-Town, Da Band, Day26 and the hit girl group Danity Kane.
Watch the first look above and don’t miss Building the Band streaming episodes 1-4 on July 9th on Netflix, followed by episodes 5-7 July 16th and episodes 8-10 July 23rd.
