Stars Gather For Dick Clark, Ryan Seacrest Shows

New York, NY (CNS) - It will be a rockin' new year as stars gather in Times Square for a musical extravaganza.

Stars will join forces in Dick Clark and Ryan Seacrest's separate shows.

The Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve" will begin to air at 10pm on Monday, December 31 on ABC. It will feature performances by Fergie, Akon, Natasha Bedingfield, Onerepublic, Plain White T's, Sean Kingston, Taylor Swift, and Will.I.Am.

Meanwhile, American Idol will return for another full season on Tuesday, January 15 and Wednesday, January 16 with a two-night, four-hour premiere. Seacrest will be back to host the popular TV competition for the seventh season. The show will feature appearances by its produce, Carrie Underwood, Miley Cyrus, and the Jonas Brothers.

"Carrie has proven over the last couple of years that she really is a superstar. She may be the most successful 'Idol' to come from our show. I think she reaches out and connects with a lot of different age groups and demographics. She really has hit a super stride right now. Miley Cyrus --- you've seen the news. You can't even get those tickets. And the Jonas Brothers, I tell you this, I have had every artist that has made the charts in my studio or on the radio, and the biggest crowd of teenagers and parents gathered for the Jonas Brothers. I think it is a score to have them all." Seacrest says proudly.

"I love what has happened with Daughtry - Chris Daughtry and his band," Ryan replies when asked what surprises the show has had for him. "The best thing that ever happened to him may have been not making it on the next week of 'American Idol,' because there was so much buzz about him leaving the show. He has found great songs to put on record. Nickelback held that role for a long time in pop rock. I think Daughtry is going to do it for the next few years, as well."

Seacrest admits Underwood's success had been predicted by AI judge Simon Cowell, whom he always have a row with, albeit teasingly.