Judges Reflect on What ‘American Idol’ Means to Them in Season 13 Sneak Peek

The 13th season of 'American Idol' is poised for great success, with a fantastic panel of judges that includes country star Keith Urban. To ease the waiting period for fans, the producers of the show give a sneak peek into the upcoming season -- and it alludes to big stars and insightful judges.

Along with Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick, Jr. round out the judging panel, and according to the 'Little Bit of Everything' hitmaker, they have great chemistry (and it's not the type of chemistry that ends in cat fights).

In the new clip, the 'Idol' judges are introspective, reflecting on why the long-running reality show is such a big hit with viewers, emerging artists and themselves.

"Being on 'American Idol' is about so many things. It's about what you have to say as an artist," says Lopez.

Adds host Ryan Seacrest, "'American Idol' has proven to deliver superstars -- Grammy award-winning artists. It’s pretty special.”

Connick shows that he will be passionate with the contestants, as he tells one young gal: "'American Idol' is a frickin' dog fight. When it comes down to it, it's heavyweights." And there's a reason it's so tough -- because, as Connick puts it, “It’s an American institution. Its the way emerging artists are presented to the world.”

The judges are on the lookout for America's next idol, but they're also mindful that they are a key part in making someone's dream come true. "I think people like the rags to riches stories, when someone's worked really really hard for it," says Urban. "It's the American dream."

The Season 13 of 'American Idol' premieres Jan. 15 at 8PM ET on FOX.