'American Idol's' Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler on their first day of judging

Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler were announced as the new "American Idol" judges just over a week ago, but they are already judging hopefuls in East Rutherford, New Jersey and tell People that they're already having fun.

"It was a long day, but it wasn't tiring," says Lopez. "I was energized by all of [the contestants'] spirits when they came in here  -- so hopeful about what could happen and how it could be. And it's exciting."

"I really want to put them through the wringer in the sense that I don't want to let anybody who's really great go ... because they're nervous or whatever and not get to see what they could've been," Lopez continues. "We worked with them a little more than maybe you've seen in the past. We give them more of a chance."

Tyler was a bit more concise in his observations so far -- "Don't get mad at what we say -- get better." And Randy Jackson was his usual self -- "Whatever you do, make it hot."

Even host Ryan Seacrest chimes in on the new judges' panel. "The chemistry is fantastic between these three," he says. "They're having a good time."

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Photo credit: FOX