American Idol returns March 3rd and with it, so do Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie as the show’s judges. While the bond between the three has solidified even more this season, Luke says the most important aspect of the talent competition is the contestants.

“It’s always about the contestants,” says Luke. “That’s what makes the show fun for us – the surprises, the talent, the youthfulness of the talent. I mean, we have so many 15, 16, 17-year-olds that are unbelievable, and watching them handle the pressure and have fun and the tears and the joy and the smile and all that. So, we’re loving it.”

The Georgia native and four-time Entertainer of the Year says he loves being a judge on the show and helping make dreams come true. “We love the role – me and Katie and Lionel and Ryan – we’re having a great time doing this. If we weren’t having a good time, it would change the whole dynamic. To be able to facilitate these kids’ dreams is very special.”

Luke is currently poised to hit the top of the country charts with his latest smash, “What Makes You Country.”

The new season of American Idol premieres Sunday, March 3rd at 8pm ET/7pm CT on ABC.