Jennifer Lopez and Mariah Carey: Former Judge Offers 'American Idol' Advice

As a former "American Idol" judge alongside Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez has imparted some wise words of advice for "American Idol" novice Mariah Carey.

"It's just about being relaxed and being honest and being yourself," The 43-year-old "Love Don't Cost a Thing" singer told Entertainment Tonight. She continues with:

"If you try and think too much about what people might think or what you're saying too much, I think you get lost ... I always just kind of spoke right from the heart and how I would want someone to speak to me if I was in that position - which I have been many times - and it worked really well for me. I had a great time."

In June 2010 it was announced that Lopez was being considered as the replacement judge on "Idol" for television personality Ellen DeGeneres. She went on to judge two seasons before renouncing her seat earlier this year.

Carey, who supposedly signed a $17 million deal with "American Idol" producers to join the season 12 cast, is still waiting to hear news about which other celebrities will be joining her at the judge's table come January. Rumors have it that Nicki Minaj, Kanye West, Nick Jonas, Pharrell Williams, and Lenny Kravitz are on the list of talked-about contenders.