from paula versus simon to nikki versus mariah. >> we're trying to help her as opposed to just talk aboutter: though for the last three seasons on abc they seemed to have reached a harmonious mix of sugar, spice, and soul in katy, luke, and lionel. >> we are so invested in this show and the outcome and these people's dreams. like this is no joke. this is not just a job, y'all. this is like a passion. >> we check our egos at the door. we're there to try to find huge stars. >> it feels very generous. >> and hopefully very genuine. i mean, this is where we get to take all of what we've learned and like give these kids some kind of shortcuts. ♪ there's a calm before the storm ♪ >> reporter: shortcuts perhaps but for so many hopefuls facing the hard truth it's half the battle. >> i don't like it. i don't like your attitude. >> we want to check them early. it's very important. because you can be the greatest singer in the world. your ego killed you. >> i don't really think you're going to make it in hollywood. >> reporter: now, they won't all make it to hollywood. and even if they do, winning i