Meet ‘American Idol’s’ New Bandleader: Ray Chew

First Published: January 2, 2011 5:01 PM EST Credit: Getty Images

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Caption Ray Chew arrives at the 9th annual BET Celebration of Gospel held at the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles on December 10, 2008In addition to new judges and changes to “American Idol’s” format, the hit FOX series has reportedly hired a new musical director — Ray Chew.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the TV music veteran — whose past credits include “Showtime at the Apollo” and NBC’s “The Singing Bee’s” — will step in to replace the departed Rickey Minor for the reality competition’s upcoming tenth season.

In April, Rickey left “Idol” to head up “The Tonight Show” band after Kevin Eubanks exited NBC’s late night show.

Ray is reportedly already putting his talents to work creating music arrangements for the show’s contestants.

In addition to his TV work, Ray curated the music for the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

“American Idol” returns for its tenth season with new judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler on January 19 on FOX.

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