Last year, CBS launched a search for a new member of popular rock band INXS via reality show. R&B group TLC did it too. Now, the search for the new Menudo is on, and it’s all going to unfold on MTV.

Unlike the bubble-gum pop of Menudos past, the new five-person group will have a Latin-infused R&B sound. Johnny Wright, who has managed acts from New Kids on the Block to ‘N Sync and Justin Timberlake, will manage the new Menudo.

Why can’t we have stayed with the Menudo of old? Why do we need a new Menudo?

I’m not sure if this means that the new Menudo will no longer be Puerto Rican, since the contest seems to be open to any male between the ages of 15 and 19. What is clear is that Epic records is banking on the success of this venture, and has already signed the still non-existent group to a recording contract. They even have their own MySpace page, which tells us that the auditions began last Saturday in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

You can follow the search for the new Menudo on — where else — Menudo.com.

Via / Billboard