South Florida 'American Idol' hopefuls take show on the road

ORLANDO -- With $5.54 in his bank account, Nova Southeastern University's José Jaquez, 18, and fellow student Stacy Gaspard, 19, drove to Orlando last Monday in a borrowed 12-seat van with a classmate.
On the same day, Roslyn Peralta, 27, a Hollywood office administrator said goodbye to a week's salary and got on the road to make the four-hour trip.
By Tuesday, Jane Castro of Miami, 27, was driving to Orlando, too, after spending the night with a friend in Tampa.
The four South Florida residents were among the nearly 9,000 American Idol hopefuls who stood in line from dawn to dusk at the Amway Arena in Orlando vying for a next-to-impossible shot at stardom.
The audition process took place over three days last week at the home of the Orlando Magic. Contestants started their quest corralled in one of six metal-framed, cage-like holding zones and ended it inside the arena with a 20-second shot at fame before one of 12 producers.
For Jaquez and Gaspard, the trip north hit a big bump. They found themselves with no place to sleep after a friend with a house in Orlando rescinded his invitation at the last minute, leaving them temporarily homeless.
''I was telling her let's just stay in the van,'' Jaquez said, referring to the 12-seat, white van borrowed from a friend.
Their eight-hour wait in line solved the problem. They met a family from Louisiana that offered them the floor of their Days Inn room, already occupied by seven people, two of whom were babies.
''My mother's heart would stop if she knew where we were staying,'' Gaspard said.
Jaquez said his bank account was less than $6, drained after he paid for his apartment, cellphone bill and his diabetic mother's cellphone bill.
The friends are both biology majors, entering their sophomore year at NSU in Davie.
But singing is their dream.
Their shoestring budget gave them two options for meals: McDonald's, which they frequented for breakfast and lunch, and eating the snacks they bought on campus before the trip with school-sponsored meal dollars.
''We bought healthy things: granola bars, Craisins, water, mints, gum and Chex Party Mix,'' Gaspard said. One night they splurged at the Olive Garden.
For the big moment, Jaquez performed All Or Nothing by O-Town, and Gaspard sang Trash by Demi Lovato. They each had 20 seconds to shine.
While neither of them made it to the next round, they had no regrets.
They straggled through the parking lot, found their white van and headed home, eager for a good night's sleep in their own beds.
Peralta hasn't had it easy lately, either.
Last month, she and her husband of a year moved in with her parents at their Hollywood home after he took a pay cut from his pest control job.
Peralta took off a week of work to drive to the audition, sacrificing a week's salary.
''It was a decision,'' said Peralta, who had discussed the trip's cost with her husband, Domingo, 27. 'I thought he was going to say, `Babe, we can't afford it,' but he was totally supportive.''
MORAL SUPPORT
She traveled to Orlando with her high school chorus friend Tara Cerreta, 26.
The friends stayed the five days in the Econo Lodge Inn and Suites for $35 a night. With a $200 budget for everything else, the two avoided restaurants and munched on French onion SunChips and Sour Patch Kids from the comfort of their hotel room, watching I Dream of Jeannie reruns.
Peralta, the daughter of two pastors, trained her voice by singing in church, Tabernacle of Christian Faith in Hollywood.
Right before her audition, she said a little prayer, and then belted out Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield.
''God gave me this gift for a reason,'' she said. ``I'm spending a good $1,000 on this trip. If I didn't think I had a shot, I wouldn't have come.''
Peralta didn't make it to round two, but her faith never wavered.
``It's OK. God has bigger and better for me.''
THE LATIN MADONNA
At around noon last Monday, Castro hopped into her 2002 PT Cruiser and embarked on her longest solo road trip ever.
With scattered cellphone calls from her Cuban mother, the Miami native headed to a friend's apartment in Tampa. She didn't have to pay for a hotel room, but she faced a three-hour commute on Tuesday to register for the American Idol auditions.
''It's a recession,'' Castro said. ``Things are bad.''
Castro works as an executive assistant at Molina Healthcare of Florida. While she's taking paid time off, Castro didn't splurge.
''I'm not going to be spending like $20 on meals,'' she said. ``I brought breakfast bars.''
And she relied on her Tampa friend, Julie Santos, 31, for food.
''I'm feeding her,'' said Santos, laughing.
Their menu: Strawberry Nutri-Grain Cereal Bars and Special K.
Castro spent about $200 in total, $130 on gas and tolls.
''It's expensive if you're not from Orlando,'' she said.
Even with the expenses, Castro was determined to audition. She has been singing professionally since she was 13 and loves to entertain.
`SHEER JOY'
''I do it for fun and for the sheer joy of it,'' said Castro, a self-proclaimed diva, who models herself after Madonna, albeit a Latin version.
Castro performed her song, Stranger In My House by Tamia.
Having auditioned for the show in Miami in 2002, she was nonchalant about the process.
Her goal was simple: ''It's meant to be,'' she said about the producers. ``You better tell me yes.''
They did.

Source

Tri-Citian Going to Denver for American Idol Auditions

PASCO, Wash.--  Tri-Citians sang their hearts out Saturday, hoping to be the next American Idol.  Legacy Ford in Pasco held auditions, and one finalist won a trip to the Denver auditions for the national TV show.
26-year-old Jacquelynne Artis was crowned the winner.  She was born and raised in the tri-Cities, sings at her church, and comes from a family of singers.  Artis says, "I am a single mom that's always had the dream of becoming a singer.  So, I came down here with just the chance of trying to get somewhere."
She will be in the mile high city this Tuesday for auditions.

Source

Los Fresnos youth to audition for ‘American Idol'

On July 14, Christina Carlson will sing her heart out in front of Paula, Simon, Randy and last season’s new judge Kara for a spot on American Idol’s ninth season coming up in January.

American Idol has made careers for Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia, Taylor Hicks, Jordin
Sparks, David Cook and recently Kris Allen.

“I’ve never had voice lessons and my dad’s family is very musical.” Carlson said as she sat down recently. “I enjoy singing.
It’s a part of me.”

A few of Carlson’s influences are Whitney Houston, Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Michael Jackson, Selena and Mariah Carey.

Christina, a senior at Los Fresnos High School, is so excited that she will finally audition.

Two years ago, Los Fresnos High School hosted its first talent show and she won first place by singing “If I Ain’t Got You” made famous by Alicia Keys.

“I’ve been wanting to do this since fifth grade.” Christina said excitedly. “I wanted to do it last year, since you have to be
16 to audition. Now I’m 17 and I hope I make it.”

Her mother Laura Carlson said the family has been following American Idol “since the beginning. We’re happy that she’s finally following her dream.”

On Sunday, Christina and her father Charles flew to Denver, Colo., to audition Tuesday at Invesco Field.

The American Idol Web site states that parents must accompany minors when they register and audition.

Carlson has selected songs that demonstrate her wide vocal range.

Carlson’s friends and family are hoping the judges will fall in love with Christina and advance her to the next round to display her talent.

“My friends and family like when I sing. It gives them joy and they always ask me to sing. I’m just glad I have support,” Christina said.

If she scores the audition, performing in front of a live audience will interfere with school.
Carlson believes that the producers will provide her a tutor or her high school will provide the work and books for her
studies.

Season seven runner-up David Archuleta received tutoring during the show and is one of the youngest contestants on Idol.

Singing has been Christina’s life-long dream. Now she hopes to hear “You’re going to Hollywood!”

“I might miss prom, but it’s okay,” Carlson said. “Singing has always been my dream and there’s really nothing else I like
doing, so I hope this is my calling.”

Source

'American Idol' tryouts in Denver will include Kalamazoo's Cassandra Weekley

GRAND RAPIDS -- Cassandra Weekley will sing Tuesday in front of "American Idol" judges as if her life depended on it. At least, that's what she's telling herself.
"I'm gonna sing like if I don't sing (well), they'll kill me," the 23-year-old Kalamazoo native said. "I have to sing for my life."
If that doesn't work, she'll at least try to make them laugh a little.
"I think I'm funny. I have a huge smile, and I love what I do. I hope that that's noticeable," said Weekley, who was guaranteed an audition after winning "West Michigan Idol," a contest sponsored by WXMI-TV (Channel 17). Her July 1 win secured the opportunity to sing in front of show producers, and hopefully before "Idol" judges Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi.
Weekley, who will audition Tuesday in Denver to be a contestant on Season 9, is taking her boyfriend, Stephen Dixon. It won't be her first time trying to get a golden ticket to Hollywood for the next round of auditions on TV's No. 1-rated reality show, whose winners include Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson and David Cook.
She first auditioned when she was 16 and again earlier this year in Chicago. Both attempts ended abruptly in first-round cuts.
"Usually what I do is I'm more reserved, because I don't want to be overwhelming," she said. "I think if I just don't hold back anymore that will help."
What she isn't changing is her song choice. Weekley plans to sing Whitney Houston's "Saving All My Love for You," one of the songs she sang at the "West Michigan Idol" competition.
"I don't want to change a winning strategy," she said. However, she still needs to find another song in case they ask her to sing again.
She knows she won't be singing "Listen," which she performed for WXMI's contest but got her the boot in Chicago.
"They obviously weren't feelin' that one," she said, laughing.
She also plans to keep her hair looking large.
"Make it as big as possible," she said.
Weekley left for Los Angeles the day after her "West Michigan Idol" win in a move planned for a while to jump-start her music career.
She secured a job waiting tables at a Venice Beach bistro. If "Idol" falls through, she has a place to sing: She asked permission from her boss to perform.

"I don't know what I need to do to make a career, but ... give me a place to sing, and I'll go sing," she said. "And if I can make money doing that, then I'm happy."

 Source

Review: Adam Lambert the star of 'American Idols Live!' in Oakland

The "American Idols Live! Tour 2009" features nine vocalists not named Adam Lambert and one that is.

The latter is the person who matters — at least that's what Bay Area "Idol" watchers have told me repeatedly over the last few months. Of course, some of those same people said that past winners Taylor Hicks and Ruben Studdard would maintain lengthy, high-profile careers. I'll be sure to pass those words on to Hicks and Studdard when I see them performing at some future county fair.

The thing is, however, those viewers may just be right this time around.

The one thing that was evident from watching Saturday's "Idols" show at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, one of three tour stops over the weekend in Northern California, is that the 27-year-old Lambert is a bona-fide star.

No matter what a person thinks of Lambert's dramatic vocal style — I find it more than a tad nauseating — it's still nearly impossible to deny his almost limitless potential. Indeed, just how the singer goes about trying to make good on all that promise should make for one of pop culture's most fascinating story lines over the next few years.

Unfortunately, the rest of the top 10 finalists that performed on this night weren't nearly as interesting as Lambert. That definitely included Kris Allen, who ended up besting Lambert to win the title of "American Idol." Whatever the voting public saw in this "average Joe" vocalist — who comes across as a blander version of John Mayer, if indeed, that's even possible — certainly didn't translate at Oracle.

Overall, the show was a snoozer, much more boring than the 2008 version. This tour simply lacks the Vegas-style razzmatazz of earlier "Idol" treks. It was designed to be a straightforward affair, one that shuns all the fun stuff like wild wardrobe changes, theatrical elements and thematic musical skits in favor of strictly spotlighting the vocalists' raw talent. As it turned out, there wasn't much worth spotlighting.

The Idols appeared in reverse order of how they finished, starting at 10th place with Michael Sarver and ending with Allen. The bottom six were pretty weak, but they did serve a purpose. They set the bar so low that the big guns had no trouble clearing it.

The first singer to really connect with the crowd was fourth place finisher Allison Iraheta, a 17-year-old Ashlee Simpson wannabe that delivered Radio Disney-appropriate versions of such rockers as Pink's "So What" and Heart's "Barracuda." She was followed by Danny Gokey, who has a nice scratchy and soulful voice, but who also lacks any type of real stage presence.

Next up was the man that seemingly every one in the three-quarter-full house had been waiting for: Lambert. The crowd went bonkers when the goth-rock Idol, recently featured on a cover of Rolling Stone magazine, appeared in his black leather outfit and began belting out Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love."

He then turned his operatic voice, so ripe for the Broadway stage, on Muse's "Starlight" and Tears for Fears' "Mad World," which turned out to be the two best songs of the night. The one major misstep of the set — and the decision can't be blamed on Lambert — was when Iraheta was called out for an unbelievably hokey duet of Foghat's "Slow Ride." Yet, he recovered nicely by ending his set with a David Bowie medley.

In direct comparison, Allen's set felt absolutely anticlimactic as he moved through folksy pop renditions of such tunes as Kanye West's "Heartless" and the Beatles' "Hey Jude." The show provided no clues to what might happen with the singer's career. It seems equally plausible that he might become the next John Mayer or that we will never hear from him again.

Far be it from me to argue with the approximately 100 million voters who decided that Allen deserved the 2009 "Idol" crown. On this night, however, he was simply one of nine performers not named Adam Lambert.

Source

Review: American Idols Live!

The “American Idols Live! Tour 2009” features nine vocalists not named Adam Lambert and one that is.

The latter is the person who matters; at least that’s what Bay Area “Idol” watchers have told me repeatedly over the last few months. Of course, some of those same people said that past winners Taylor Hicks and Ruben Studdard would maintain lengthy, high-profile careers in the music industry. I’ll be sure to pass those words on to Hicks and Studdard when I see them performing at some future county fair.

The thing is, however, those viewers may just be right this time around.

The one thing that was blatantly evident from watching Saturday’s “Idols” show at the Oracle Arena in Oakland _ one of three tour stops over the weekend in Northern California _ is that the 27-year-old Lambert is a bona-fide star.

No matter what a person thinks of Lambert’s overtly dramatic vocal style _ I, for one, find it more than a tad nauseating _ it’s still nearly impossible to deny his almost limitless potential. Indeed, just how the singer goes about trying to make good on all that promise should make for one of pop culture’s most fascinating storylines over the next few years.

Unfortunately, the rest of the top 10 finalists that performed on this night weren’t nearly as interesting as Lambert. That definitely included Kris Allen _ who, many have apparently forgotten by now, actually ended up besting Lambert to win the title of “American Idol” 2009. Whatever the voting public saw in this “average Joe” vocalist _ who comes across as a blander version of John Mayer, if indeed that’s even possible _ certainly didn’t translate at Oracle.

Overall, the show was a snoozer, much more boring than the 2008 version. This tour simply lacks the Vegas-style razzmatazz of earlier “Idol” treks. It was designed to be a straight-forward affair, one that shuns all the fun stuff like wild wardrobe changes, theatrical elements and thematic musical skits in favor of strictly spotlighting the vocalists’ raw talent. As it turned out, there wasn’t much worth spotlighting.

The Idols appeared in reverse order of how they finished, starting at 10th place with Michael Sarver and ending with Allen. The bottom six were pretty weak, but they did serve a purpose _ they set the bar so low that the big guns had no trouble clearing it.

The first singer to really connect with the crowd was fourth place finisher Allison Iraheta, a 17-year-old Ashlee Simpson wannabe that delivered Radio Disney-appropriate versions of such rockers as Pink’s “So What” and Heart’s “Barracuda.” She was followed by Danny Gokey, who has a nicely scratchy and soulful voice, but who also lacks any type of real presence onstage.

Next up was the man that seemingly every one in the three-quarter-full house had been waiting for: Lambert. The crowd went bonkers when the goth-rock Idol, recently featured on a cover of Rolling Stone magazine, appeared in his black leather outfit and began belting out Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.”

He then turned his operatic voice, so ripe for the Broadway stage, on Muse’s “Starlight” and Tears for Fears’ “Mad World,” which turned out to be the two best songs of the night. The one major misstep of the set _ and the decision can’t be blamed on Lambert _ was when Iraheta was called out for an unbelievably hokey duet of Foghat’s “Slow Ride.” Yet, he recovered nicely by ending his set with a David Bowie medley.

In direct comparison, Allen’s set felt absolutely anticlimactic as he moved through folksy pop renditions of such tunes as Kanye West’s “Heartless” and the Beatles’ “Hey Jude.” The show provided no clues to what might happen with the singer’s career – it still seems equally plausible that he might become the next John Mayer or that we will never hear from him again.

Far be it from me to argue with the approximately 100 million voters who decided that Allen deserved the 2009 “Idol” crown. On this night, however, he was simply one of nine performers not named Adam Lambert.

Source

3 ‘Idol’ alumni target holiday season for debuts

LOS ANGELES - The first post-"American Idol" albums from three recent contestants on the hit show are expected this fall, in time for the holiday season. Release dates are still to be announced.

Here's a quick rundown of what they've been working on in the recording studio.

Kris Allen
As the most recent winner of "American Idol," Kris Allen isn't just expected to record a debut album -- he's supposed to make chart-topping hits and live up to the sales of Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and David Cook before him.

For his fall debut on 19/Jive, the 23-year-old has a wealth of songwriters and producers to choose from: David Hodges (Clarkson, Daughtry), Salaam Remi (Nas, Amy Winehouse) and Claude Kelly (Akon, Leona Lewis) have all submitted material for the record. Allen also collaborated with Joe King of the Fray in June at Timbaland's Virginia Beach, Virginia, recording studio.

"Each writing session has been a learning experience," says Allen, who adds that his record will sound similar to John Mayer and Jason Mraz, with possible traces of the urban sound that he's been exploring with some collaborators. "I think that we are trying to figure it out and that it's going the right way, and I'm really excited about it. I can't wait."

Adam Lambert
Adam Lambert is unlike any "American Idol" contestant before him, and not just because of his Goth-glam fashion or seemingly infinite vocal range. The eighth-season runner-up is recording an album for 19/RCA Records just as another set bearing his name is headed to stores.

Due this summer, "On With the Show" (Hi Fi Recordings/Wilshire Records) will feature material Lambert recorded pre-"Idol." Naturally, he wants fans to wait for his proper fall debut, saying, "The work I did back then in no way reflects the music I am currently in the studio working on."

The singer has so far teamed with producers RedOne (Lady GaGa) and Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic (Beyonce, Jordin Sparks), while Sam Sparro and Jim Jonsin have contributed as well.

Tedder says his songs with Lambert have a New Wave, Tears for Fears vibe, but that choosing a musical direction for Lambert results in an embarrassment of riches. "He can sing so many different styles of music," Tedder says. "I think he can be a global superstar; there's not a doubt in my mind."

Jason Castro
The original dark horse contestant on "American Idol," Jason Castro finished in fourth place in season seven and in April signed with Atlantic Records, marking the first time the label will work with an "Idol" alumnus.

"If you fell in love with Jason on the show, this is exactly the record you'd want him to make," says Pete Ganberg, Atlantic executive vice president/head of A&R. "It's introspective, playful and very much a combination of his influences, which range from Jeff Buckley to Jack Johnson."

The dreadlocked singer co-wrote 11 songs on the 14-track set, which features production and additional songwriting by Evan Rosse, John Fields and Kara DioGuardi.

"I'm really excited about the music we've written," says Castro, who also signed a deal with Universal Music Publishing Group in June. "I'm ready to get out there and show it to the world."

A debut single is expected to hit radio in August.

Source

Adbul's Idol Contract Renewal Could Be A Money Thing

There’s been lots of speculation over whether or not Fox will renew Paula Abdul’s contract as co-judge on the networks popular competition series American Idol but from the sounds of it, it might not be an issue of whether or not they want her back as it is whether or not she’ll come back for the price they’re willing to pay.

TV Guide Magazine ran a small story (almost a blurb really) suggesting that the issue of Paula’s contract renewal might have something to do with the hefty raise Simon Cowell may or may not be getting. An insider apparently told TV Guide Magazine that Fox, “always wanted (Abdul) back for the duration of American Idol. It’s whether or not they can come to terms. It’s just a matter of dollars. If she’s only making two or three and Simon’s getting 10, is that fair? No.”

Hey, we all want more money, right? And when the rumors start flying that the guy in the cubicle next to you is getting a raise and you’re up for a performance review, it’s understandable that you might considering asking for more money too. The question is, in Abdul’s case, is Fox willing to give her however much she wants or will Idol be short one judge come January? 

Source

Concert Review: Packed Arco Arena revels in Idol-atry

The monster machine that is the "American Idols Live! Tour 2009" roared into Arco Arena last night. And, for three hours, fans of the TV show and the Top 10 finalists were treated to a spectacle of lights, theatrics and amazing music.

(Maybe Beyonce stuck around after her show here Thursday. It would have been worth it!)

A member of arena security estimated the crowd at "near capacity - if not more." It was a packed audience, willing to spend close to $70 for the coveted floor level seats and filling the upper levels almost to the top. Sacramento was only the fourth stop on a tour that will criss-cross the country through Sept. 15.

So last night, fans were lucky to have the "Idols" psyched and well-rested.

Many waited in line to snap up T-shirts, programs and teddy bears. Susan Strongfellow of Sacramento was bound and determined to add a shirt to her collection. "I told my husband to sit down, I'm getting one!" she said in line. This was her first-ever "Idol" concert. Her favorite performer? "Definitely Adam Lambert."

It was a girls' night out for Susan Kanold and her daughter Anna, 12, who came from Lodi for the show - also their first. "Kris (Allen) is my favorite," said Anna. Her mom says Danny Gokey is her sentimental favorite.

The show opened with blazing lights and the all-too-familiar "American Idol" "do-do-do-do-do-do-do" theme music. I half expected Ryan Seacrest to levitate from underneath the stage because it felt like you were actually at the Hollywood show. The acoustics were slightly off at the start, overwhelming some of the lyrics, but the kinks were quickly worked out The format was simple: During the first half of the show the Top 6 "Idols" performed in the order they finished in the competition, each singing two to three songs. So that's where we'll start.

• Michael Sarver: Quite the transformation from oil-rigger to performer, Sarver opened the show dressed in black pants and a white, jewel-studded jacket. He dedicated his set to his wife, asking the crowd, "Are you in love with somebody?" His mix of bluesy rock and pop country - especially on Elvis Presley's "Suspicious Minds" - was a nice start.

• Megan Joy: She opened with a perfect song choice for that unique twist she puts on her music - Corinne Bailey Rae's "Put Your Records On." She left the "Idol" competition early but definitely has been putting in rehearsal time. Dressed in a hot pink satin dress and way-high stilettos, Joy didn't shimmy in place as usual; she worked the entire stage.

• Scott MacIntyre: No surprise, he rose from underneath the stage playing the piano for all it was worth. His cover of Vanessa Carlton's "A Thousand Miles" was well-played and well-sung. And MacIntyre's a guy who doesn't shy from mentioning the tunnel vision that is a part of his life. "Remember when I auditioned and made it through?" he asked. "Ryan's high-five attempt was the high-five heard around the world!"

• Lil Rounds: The mother of three from Memphis took on two of pop music's biggest songs: Beyonce's "All the Single Ladies" and "No One" by Alicia Keys. Her energy was amazing as was her outfit - a black coat dress, beaucoup bling, jeweled stilettos and a black "catsuit" underneath. Lil proved that finishing sooner than later in the competition won't impact her career.

• Anoop Desai: I personally was hoping Anoop "Dawg" wouldn't wear another jacket (and I believe a tie) because I thought the often-seen outfit stiffened his performances on the show, but he did again last night, opting to add a pair of glasses as well. Also, I'm not sure his version of Willie Nelson's "Always on My Mind" was - as Simon Cowell might say - his best performance, but this guy is so likeable. And he's a Tar Heel!

• Matt Giraud: He gets my award for most improved performer. And remember, Giraud was the contestant who got the judges' save this season, which kept him in the competition. He started out not wearing his trademark fedora, but donned the chapeau when he sat at the piano for gutsy, heartfelt performances of "Georgia" and The Fray's "You Found Me." 

Before intermission the Top 6 did a medley of songs, including "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You" (Joy and Rounds) and the dueling piano men MacIntyre and Giraud with the original "Piano Man" Billy Joel's rockin' "Tell Her About It."

It's a safe bet there are plenty of sore jaws this morning after the jaw-dropping set by 17-year-old rocker Allison Iraheta. It's scary that someone this young has such a mature stage presence. She just took over - from the get-go. Perfect opener? You bet. Pink's "I'm a Rock Star" They had the fans on her flaming-red hair and the leather-studded jacket and black pants were in keeping with her rocker-girl style. And it wouldn't be right if Iraheta didn't treat the crowd to her versions of classic rock standards - Janis Joplin's "Cry Baby" and Heart's "Barracuda."

It was ironic - and appropriate - that Danny Gokey opted to open his set with "PYT," the Michael Jackson song he performed during the competition. His much-maligned dance moves on the show have been replaced by twists and turns with the microphone - all in sync! Loved his haunting cover of Carlos Santana's "Maria Maria." Gokey asked the audience "Do we have any dreamers out there?" And he dedicated his final song, Rascal Flatts' "My Wish," to the Arco crowd.

I don't even know where to begin and end with second-place finisher Adam Lambert. He clearly was the performer this audience was clamoring for. And he delivered. Washed in shades of blue and silver (his signature colors) and wearing a leather "morning coat," Lambert made mincemeat of the microphone with Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love." There was smoke and faux fire as he dominated the stage. He's made perfection out of his haunting reprise of "Mad World" by Tears for Fears, which he sang at least twice on the TV show.

The audience was on its feet for the Lambert/Iraheta duet of Foghat's "Slow Ride," which they also performed on "American Idol." With a bigger stage they played a cat-and-mouse game with the rock classic.

Season 8 winner Kris Allen wouldn't be Kris Allen if he employed the theatrics of Lambert, so it was only fitting that he demonstrated his amazing gift to sing and play both the guitar and the piano. He opened with his amazing cover of Kanye West's "Heartless," which got him rave reviews on the show. He also performed "Ain't No Sunshine." Looking back at when "Idol" fans first met Kris - in January - this young man has matured into a singer/songwriter that deserved the title.

His set closed with Allen leading the audience in a sing-a-long of "Hey Jude." You know the words!

All 10 "Idols" regrouped for the finale, which has now become the theme song for the Fox show "Glee" - Journey's "Don't Stop Believing." The Arco crowd, which probably could have stayed another three hours, was eventually bathed in a wash of bubbles floating from the rafters.What always amazes when the "American Idol" tour hits Sacramento each summer is the diversity of audience. Grandparents, moms, dads, little kids, tweens, teens. Folks who love eyeliner and eye candy. They wear Vans and they drive vans. And everyone we talked to said they couldn't wait for Season 9.

The tour plays tonight in Oakland and Sunday in San Jose before heading to Southern California.

Source

American Idol Finalists Fedorov And DeGarmo To Star In Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma's

Two American Idol finalists from past seasons reunite this summer to perform live on stage in the heart of America. Anthony Fedorov and Diana DeGarmo will star in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, part of the 2009 summer season of musicals produced by Lyric Theatre, Oklahoma's premiere regional theatre company. Fedorov, a finalist from Season 4, and DeGarmo, the runner-up from Season 3, will perform respectively as Joseph and the Narrator in Andrew Lloyd Webber's most cherished musical, playing from Tuesday, July 21st through Saturday, July 25th.

Lyric Theatre was founded in 1963 and has built a reputation for producing stellar Broadway quality musicals combining the best of national and local talent. Anthony Fedorov was the fourth place Idol finalist on the fourth season of the show, which was eventually won by Oklahoma native Carrie Underwood. Born in Ukraine, Fedorov was known on Idol as the contestant with the tracheotomy scar who overcame a near-fatal infant illness that almost left him without the ability to speak. Miraculously, Fedorov proved that diagnosis wrong and after his stint on Idol, he went on to star in the off-Broadway production of The Fantasticks and has also enjoyed a successful live performance and recording career.

After Fedorov accepted the leading role in Joseph..., Diana DeGarmo was approached about performing the role of the Narrator, the woman who weaves the story together and takes the audience along on Joseph's amazing journey. At age 16, Diana DeGarmo was one of the youngest finalists to first compete on the American Idol. Finishing second to Fantasia Barrino, she impressed the Idol judges with her mature vocal prowess and has since gone on to pursue a successful career in musical theatre. She performed in the Broadway production of Hairspray and starred in the national tour of Brooklyn: the Musical.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, based on the story of Joseph and his "coat of many colors" from the Bible's Book of Genesis, was written by the composing team of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. The piece began in 1968 as a fifteen-minute pop cantata commissioned by the Colet Court School in London. Webber and Rice developed the piece from there, using the success of their first rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar to create interest in Joseph. The piece reached Broadway in 1982 where it ran for 749 performances.

The favored son among eleven jealous brothers, Joseph is betrayed, sold into slavery, and taken far from his home into Egypt. Up against tremendous adversity, Joseph uses wit, faith, and his special gift of interpreting dreams in order to defy incredible odds. Families will treasure this timeless tale of love, loyalty, and courage set to a riveting score of music that includes powerful selections like "Any Dream Will Do", "Close Every Door" and "Go, Go, Go Joseph". Lyric is proud to offer this once-in-a-lifetime Broadway experience about a hero not afraid to follow his dreams and whose story will live on for all time.

Lyric's production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat will feature 80 children, ages 7 through 16, participating in "Camp Joseph," Lyric Academy's three-week musical theatre training program that culminates with performing in the show's Children's Chorus. These young thespians, together with professional supporting players in the roles of the Pharaoh, Joseph's father, his brothers, and their wives, make up a cast of over 100 people. Lyric Theatre continues the 2009 season by fulfilling its mission to nurture artistic talent by creating the opportunity for young, aspiring performers to learn from the best in the business.

Joseph... will be directed and choreographed by Gerry McIntyre, who has performed in the show on Broadway and is one of only three Americans in the Joseph... film starring Donny Osmond. Lyric's production will also feature music direction by Keith Levenson, costume design by Jeffrey Meek, set design by Amanda Foust, lighting design by Helena Kuukka, and sound design by George Ryan.

This production is sponsored by Chesapeake Energy Corporation, the Oklahoman, the Chickasaw Nation, SandRidge Energy, the National Endowment for the Arts, C.H. Guernsey & Co., and Susan Blake in memory of Alex Blake. Valuable support was also given by Allied Arts and the Oklahoma Arts Council.

Source

Tri-City singers to audition for 'American Idol'

PASCO -- Got the chops to survive a face-to-face encounter with Simon, Paula, Randy and Kara?

Better survive the Tri-Cities first.

Legacy Ford in Pasco is offering a chance for one Mid-Columbia hopeful to fly to Denver for the last American Idol auditions on Tuesday.

A trio of local judges will score 80 participants Saturday, narrowing the field to five finalists.

Fred Von Gogh, owner of Von Gogh's Pianos and Organs; AJ Rooster, DJ for Power 99 Radio; and Rik Mikals, DJ and morning show host for The Wolf 94.9 FM radio, will choose one contestant from the five finalists to face Idol producers -- and possibly judges -- in Denver.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. at Legacy Ford, 1225 Autoplex Way, Pasco, and the bright lights will come on at 4 p.m. at Legacy Ford.

Spectators can come see the performances, and there will be no admission charge.

Last year 69 people turned up to sing their hearts out in front of four judges. The winner, Spokane's Elysia Villanueva, won an audition in front of the show's producers in New Jersey.

Season 9 auditions already have wrapped up in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, Orlando, Dallas and Boston.

Participants will need two forms of identification proving age and a photograph. Contestants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with proof of guardianship.

Source

American Idol putting money where its mouth is

Ryan Seacrest, the host with the most, is about the become a fabulously wealthy fellow.  

The Hollywood Reporter posts that Seacrest is on the verge of a megadeal with American Idol co-producer 19 Entertainment.  19 Entertainment produces Idol--the highest rated show on television--along with FreemantleMedia and Fox Television.  

Seacrest is one of the busiest men in Hollywood.  In addition to his “THIS.....is American Idol” duties, Seacrest produces the series Keeping Up With the Kardashians” and “Denise Richards: It’s Complicated”.  On the radio, he still hosts a daily show and the weekly standard, “American Top Forty”.

The Reporter also speculates that all four judges are working on new deals before next season...and gossips that surly Simon Cowell may want $100 million per season.  

Negotiations aside, the Idol freight train rolls forward, with auditions for Season Nine well underway.  In addition, the American Idol tour has just kicked off and is moving generally west to east across the country.

Source

3 "Idol" alumni target holiday season for debuts

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - The first post-"American Idol" albums from three recent contestants on the hit show are expected this fall, in time for the holiday season. Release dates are still to be announced.

Here's a quick rundown of what they've been working on in the recording studio.

KRIS ALLEN

As the most recent winner of "American Idol," Kris Allen isn't just expected to record a debut album -- he's supposed to make chart-topping hits and live up to the sales of Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and David Cook before him.

For his fall debut on 19/Jive, the 23-year-old has a wealth of songwriters and producers to choose from: David Hodges (Clarkson, Daughtry), Salaam Remi (Nas, Amy Winehouse) and Claude Kelly (Akon, Leona Lewis) have all submitted material for the record. Allen also collaborated with Joe King of the Fray in June at Timbaland's Virginia Beach, Virginia, recording studio.

"Each writing session has been a learning experience," says Allen, who adds that his record will sound similar to John Mayer and Jason Mraz, with possible traces of the urban sound that he's been exploring with some collaborators. "I think that we are trying to figure it out and that it's going the right way, and I'm really excited about it. I can't wait."

ADAM LAMBERT

Adam Lambert is unlike any "American Idol" contestant before him, and not just because of his Goth-glam fashion or seemingly infinite vocal range. The eighth-season runner-up is recording an album for 19/RCA Records just as another set bearing his name is headed to stores.

Due this summer, "On With the Show" (Hi Fi Recordings/Wilshire Records) will feature material Lambert recorded pre-"Idol." Naturally, he wants fans to wait for his proper fall debut, saying, "The work I did back then in no way reflects the music I am currently in the studio working on."

The singer has so far teamed with producers RedOne (Lady GaGa) and Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic (Beyonce, Jordin Sparks), while Sam Sparro and Jim Jonsin have contributed as well.

Tedder says his songs with Lambert have a new wave, Tears for Fears vibe, but that choosing a musical direction for Lambert results in an embarrassment of riches. "He can sing so many different styles of music," Tedder says. "I think he can be a global superstar; there's not a doubt in my mind."

JASON CASTRO

The original dark horse contestant on "American Idol," Jason Castro finished in fourth place in season seven and in April signed with Atlantic Records, marking the first time the label will work with an "Idol" alumnus.

"If you fell in love with Jason on the show, this is exactly the record you'd want him to make," says Pete Ganberg, Atlantic executive vice president/head of A&R. "It's introspective, playful and very much a combination of his influences, which range from Jeff Buckley to Jack Johnson."

The dreadlocked singer co-wrote 11 songs on the 14-track set, which features production and additional songwriting by Evan Rosse, John Fields and Kara DioGuardi.

"I'm really excited about the music we've written," says Castro, who also signed a deal with Universal Music Publishing Group in June. "I'm ready to get out there and show it to the world."

A debut single is expected to hit radio in August.

Source

Music First, Kids Later for 'Idol' Singer

Brooke White's upbeat personality would make some wonder if she even realized she got kicked off 'American Idol' during the show's seventh season. Coming down from the whirlwind of her post-'Idol' career, White remains positive about balancing her "intense" music career with her family life, she told PopEater.

Go Behind the Scenes at Her Video Shoot for 'Radio Radio'

Skip over this content

White calculates she was only home three or four weeks from January 2008 to the end of September, when the 'Idol' tour ended. Yet, she's ready to do it all over again.

Her new album 'High Hopes and Heartbreak' will be released on July 21, and White will be back on the road touring. "I definitely am going to miss being around my family, but right now, it’s time to roll up my sleeves and work hard, taking advantage of the opportunities 'Idol' has given me," White told PopEater.

Tell me about your new album. From the title, it sounds pretty emotional.
"The album is a pretty honest journey through my experiences, whether it be related to life, chasing after dreams or relationships shifting. It's a melting pot of emotions both happy and sad – and everything in between. I was deeply entrenched and basically invested pretty much everything I got into this album."

Did you feel pressure to write and record an album right away while you were still fresh in people's minds?
"Yes, I felt a lot of pressure, but I didn't feel forced. The truth is once you're done with 'Idol,' the ball is in your court. You have to do what you can to keep it moving. We all know there is this time frame because of the nature of the show. You really have to fight to continue to stay at the forefront of people's minds. Getting to write and going into the studio was such an incredibly positive and fulfilling experience for me. I am sad that part is over. The last day that we recorded, I was like, 'No! Let's just keep going and make another record.'"

Randy Jackson was actually the co-executive producer on your new album. How did you two sync up?
"I actually ran into Randy at Guitar Center after the show and that's how this whole thing got started. He was great. He synced me up with Sanctuary Artist Management. The two now co-manage me. I wouldn't have anticipated working with him, but he has been really great to work with and very supportive of me as an artist."

You're going to be back on the road soon. How are your family, especially your husband, dealing with this?
"Luckily, I am married to a really solid guy, who is very supportive. It's hard, but we both put forth a lot of effort to stay in communication. It's tricky, but we definitely get through it. In the end, I think we're better off and learned a lot from it, if that makes any sense."

Do you plan to bring children into the equation or will your career make it too hectic to have kids?
"We definitely want kids. It's just a matter of timing and well, having the time I suppose."

Looking back on your Idol experience, do you have any regrets?
"There are so many of those little things that you have to let go of. You can't control all elements. Things are going to play out the way that they will. I think maybe I would have let go and enjoyed it a little more. I can say that now, but when you're [performing on 'Idol'], it's so intense and challenging... I always tried to give it my best and have very few regrets. It was a crazy, amazing experience."

In your 'Idol' exit video, you said you probably would have gone further, but you struggled with your confidence. Do you still have these insecurities now?
"I've improved, but I still struggle with my self-esteem or confidence even after everything I've been able to do and accomplish. It keeps me from ever becoming complacent though. I'll always keep working and trying to improve. I'm like the tortured artist -- I'm never satisfied. [laughs]... But that sensitivity, as much as it's a heavy weight for me, it provides me what I need to be a better artist, communicating through music and connecting with people."

'High Hopes & Heartbreak' will be available on iTunes one week early on Tuesday, July 14. Her album will hit stores on the album's official release date, July 21.

 

 Source

Denver "American Idol" auditions attract Boulderites

BOULDER, Colo. — Locals looking to become the next Carrie Underwood get their shot this week. "American Idol" auditions return to Invesco Field in Denver Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.

The auditions are known to bring thousands of people from all over the region and at least four singers from the Boulder area are participating. A good performance could land them a spot on season 9 of "Idol."

The auditions came to Denver once before, in 2005. Ace Young was one of many at the Denver auditions in 2005. Young, a Boulder native, made it to seventh place in the fifth season of American Idol in 2006.

Many, however, do not meet the same fate as Young, as there are two grueling rounds before they get even a glimpse of the television judges. Just waiting in line for registration can take all day. Registration for the Denver auditions begins Sunday.

The process for this year is not publicly outlined by the show's producers, but here's how auditions have gone in past years:

On the day of the audition, contestants waited in line again to sing in front of producers with two other contestants. Each sang a 15-second piece with no accompaniment. The vast majority of hopefuls were eliminated in this round. It sounds chaotic, but according to 2005 Denver audition attendee Nicole Walker, it's not.

"It was a little overwhelming, but I was really surprised it was really well organized," she said.

Producers -- that is, still not the celebrity judges -- have also done the second round of judging, but in a more intimate setting, typically a few days after the first audition.

The third round of judging has been in front of the four famous judges, Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi. Typically, this round has had about 100 to 200 hopefuls per city.

The last round, before making it big time on the popular show, is the Hollywood round. All of the contestants who have advanced from preliminaries across the country rehearse and compete for a week in Hollywood. After this round, those deemed able to become the next Idol make it to the show.

While the odds are long, these Boulder-area hopefuls have been working hard to try and make it all the way, practicing, taking vocal lessons, and singing in front of everyone they know:

Kari Han

A 27-year-old stay at home mother of two, this is her first time auditioning, and because "American Idol" only allows people between ages 16-28 to try out, it's her last chance. She cites Britney Spears as her musical inspiration and will be singing "At Last," made famous by Etta James and "He's a Tramp" from "Lady and the Tramp."

Courtney Brown

A 16-year-old student at Frederick High School, she's in choir and drum line at her school. She has traveled with the Longmont Children's Chorale to New York City and performed at Carnegie Hall and has placed second in "Frederick Idol" -- her school's competition -- twice.

Philip Rubinstein

A 21-year-old fourth-year student at the University of Colorado, he has a double major in philosophy and vocal music. Rubinstein started a barbershop quartet in high school and is in the a cappella group "Mile 21" and has watched every season of "Idol."

Nicole Walker

A 23-year-old vocal instructor and session vocalist, Walker auditioned for "Idol" in 2005 and plans to sing "I Told You So," a song by previous "Idol" champ Carrie Underwood.

Source

Paula Abdul Back on American Idol

Though an actual contract has yet to be drafted, Paula Abdul recently confirmed that she would be coming back as a judge on American Idol. Paula told the press that she has been invited back to the show for “the duration of the show, however long it lasts.” She also said that the show will always be something that she would want to be a part of. Let’s just hope that her optimism will turn into a finalized contract some time soon. But even without a contract, it’s good to hear that she’s in talks to come back. It just wouldn’t be the same without her kooky self.

Source

Baugh takes shot at ‘American Idol’

People watch “American Idol” on television and wonder “What if that were me on that stage singing?”
Breckenridge resident and college student Hunter Baugh took it one step further and followed his dream on another level.
On June 26, Baugh was one of many contestants who took a shot at being the next “American Idol.”

Here is the interview conducted July 8 on Facebook.
Rob: How long have you been a fan of American Idol?
Hunter: well, to be honest, I have never really watched a season. I just saw clips and saw the talent and then when I found out that a lot of the music I listen to comes from American Idol winners/contestants it really surprised me.
Rob: so when did you decide that you would give it a shot to be a contestant?
Hunter: probably about two weeks before the auditions, before, I really had no way of getting there and auditioning because I hadn’t driven in Dallas/Arlington traffic but ever since I had moved to college, I got used to driving in it. Since I somewhat knew where the new stadium was, it was a lot easier.

Rob: How many people were there at the tryouts?
Hunter: Well I heard 14,000. Then I heard 16,000. So I’m just going to say about 15,000 people...lol
Rob: Yeah. That’s a good average figure...lol
Hunter: lol, there were a lot of people. The wait wasn’t really that long either. We got in line at about 5 a.m. that morning and was inside and filming by 9:30 a.m.
Rob: So were you intimidated when you saw that amount of people?
Hunter: I wouldn’t really say intimidated but I was kind of dreading the wait because I’m really impatient but I was thinking “I’m going to meet a lot of people and definitely some Interesting people today so I think ill be entertained until my turn.” But when I heard some of the people sing, I kind of thought I didn’t stand a chance but then again, what one judge thinks, another judge probably doesn’t so even some of the best singers there didn’t make it. Trust me, I witnessed it a lot...lol.
Rob: While waiting for your turn, where were some of the other contestants from?
Hunter: One girl I sat beside had flown in from New York and she was in my group when we went to sing and she sang an Alicia Keyes song and sounded amazing, but didn’t make it through. Some others were from Houston, Austin, and I finally actually started meeting people from Dallas. I also saw 2 of my friends from college there
Rob: Man...that’s unbelievable! So, give me a little background on the song you sang. What made you decide on this one?
Hunter: I sang “ God Bless The Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts and I sang this because I had very first heard it at my brothers wedding when I had made (brother) Turner (Baugh) and Brandi (Baugh) a music video. It reminded me of family and love and that I had people waiting for me at home and so many people waiting for news here on Facebook about my journey and what was going on as well.
Another choice was “My Wish” by Rascall Flatts too, just because It reminds me of my parents and so basically I base American Idol on my family because their the ones who support me so much.
Rob: Both of those are great songs and Rascal Flatts is a good group. But, I have to ask the question everyone wants to know. Did you see Simon or any of the other judges?
Hunter: haha! Everyone has asked me that. Unfortunately, no. Its true what they say - What you see on TV is different than real life - in some situations lol. But you know how you see the long lines and then you see the auditions with the judges on that same episode? It doesnt work that way. You have to go through like 2 or 3 stages with producers and such until you finally meet them which is later on in the year I believe
Rob: Once again TV had fooled us....
Hunter: Heck yeah man. I’m sure Simon had something to do with it lol
Rob: Yeah..he seems like such an easy person to get along with, right?
Hunter: Duh, he told me to add him on Facebook! lol. Oh by the way, we had a moment of silence for Michael Jackson that day - seeing how he had died the day before.
Rob: No way! Really? That was neat.
Hunter: Yeah, it was really awesome how 15,000 people could be so quiet
Rob: So....we heard about how a lot of people knew you were trying out for American Idol...did you get any phone calls or text messages while you were waiting?
Hunter: Text messages mainly.. I’m such a geek though cause I have it set to where if I get a new post or something it sends a notification to my phone so basically, my phone was ringing all day with new posts. I would post updates on here with my phone and send pictures, videos and then stories when I had time. So I kept everyone pretty informed with what was happening almost ever hour ever since I registered that Wednesday morning then went back for the audition Friday or tried to at least...lol.
Rob: So how did the process of you getting eliminated from the competition go and how did it make you feel?
Hunter: Well, we got in line at 5 a.m. that morning and I finally audition at 5:30 that afternoon... so when I got down there, honestly, I was so tired from the night before because I couldn’t sleep AT ALL so I was ready to get it over with and leave lol. But when I got down there, I guess I was so tired that I wasn’t nervous at all! I was very surprised I wasn’t but when I got up there and we all sang she pulled us all forward and said “ You guys all sounded great! However, this is season 9 of American Idol and we are raising the bar” which I guess they wanted more talent and entertainment I guess.
Hunter: But when I was walking back up there, I had a really bad headache so I was ready to leave and get something to eat lol, like I sad before I went “I wont be sad/disappointed because I know that I have a life, family, friends school & a job to come back to so its no biggie.”
Rob: Getting there is half the battle. Man, congratulations on making it that far. Any famous last words?
Hunter: Well, I just going to say that people need to follow their dreams because “you win some and you lose some” and even though 15,000 people were there and only 300 or so made it. It didn’t affect me that much because I came home to SO much more than all of that.
Rob: Hunter, thanks for your time. And like you say, keep following your dreams. It’s been a pleasure.
Hunter: Thanks man!

Source

Report: Ryan Seacrest eyes new 'American Idol' deal, pay hike

Ryan Seacrest is reportedly on the brink of signing a new deal with American Idol co-producer 19 Entertainment that would extend his contract for three years and make him one of the highest paid reality hosts on television, according to a report in The Hollywood Reporter. The contract would also potentially see Seacrest launching new projects with Simon Fuller, Idol's executive producer. Seacrest reportedly made close to $5 million for emceeing the Idol's eighth season.

Source

Ryan Seacrest To Get A Raise With 'American Idol' Contract

Hot on the heels of Paula Abdul's statement that she'll be back for more "American Idol" next season, it looks like host Ryan Seacrest is only steps away from signing his contract extension, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

According to the report, he is currently in talks with "Idol" co-producer 19 Entertainment to extend his contract for three more years and get a significant pay raise that would make him one of the highest-paid reality-TV hosts.

This past season, Seacrest made a little under $5 million, or about $100,000 per episode. Seacrest is also reportedly trying to expand his relationship with 19 Entertainment to develop a new series with "Idol" creator Simon Fuller.

Seacrest reportedly met with people at 19 in the U.K. last month to discuss the deal. Although there have been no confirmations yet, THR says an announcement is expected on Monday.

All four "Idol" judges, including Simon Cowell, are currently in the process of negotiating new contracts, though the season's auditions have already begun. But in May, Cowell seemed certain that everyone would be back on the show.

"Everyone's going to be back. Absolutely," Cowell said. "It's been honestly the best eight, nine years of my life. But I just believe sometimes everything has to come to an end." 

Source

'American Idol''s Top 10 on Tour

"American Idol"'s Top 10, led by Kris Allen and Adam Lambert, are touring America this summer, and ET gets the 411!

"My personal life has become kind of public," Adam tells ET about how his life has changed since the "American Idol" finale. "It comes with the territory. I am glad to share my story, but, hopefully, we can move past the controversial topics and look forward to great music. I think [my sexuality] is controversial for some people. It was nice to set the record straight. That is why I did it: 'Let's talk about this once and move on.' There is a lot of great positive support out there. That means a lot to me."

Kris Allen's life has also undergone a major change. "You don't get any sleep. That is the one thing I would like back," he jokes about winning. On the serious side, he says of his new album, "It has been really great. A lot of work. We have been writing, trying to figure out all that stuff. I feel like [the album will be] kind of what I did on the show. We are experimenting and trying different things. It will all work out in the end."

For more with Adam, Kris, Allison Iraheta, Anoop Desai, Danny Gokey, Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud, Megan Joy, Michael Sarver and Scott MacIntyre, check out the video.

The "American Idol 2009 Summer Tour" continues to wend its way across America, wrapping up on September 15 in Manchester, NH. 

Source

Tra-la-la! It's time for "American Idol" tryouts

Hey, you! You with the healthy ego and the craving to be on television! You sound good in the shower, right? When the steam is rising and the acoustics are right, you can fake a vibrato as well as Lil Rounds, croon a soulful ballad in the manner of Danny Gokey, or stomp through a Southern rocker like Taylor Hicks, no?

Soap up: Starting Sunday, you'll have a chance to impress the producers of "American Idol" enough to win a ticket to the competition.

The Fox phenomenon doesn't return to the airwaves until January, but the television steamroller known as "American Idol" will hold auditions at Denver's Invesco Field at Mile High on Tuesday, with preregistration on Sunday and Monday.

Here's what you need to know before you bring your larynx down to Invesco in the wee hours:

Doors open at 7 a.m. Sunday. You can't camp out outside the stadium, but you can arrive a couple of hours early and make the scene, yodeling your karaoke best for the local affiliate's cameras. Consider yourself an extra in the promotional blitz for "Idol."

Because this is the final audition of the year, after stops in Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles and Orlando, the producers expect thousands of aspirants from Colorado and beyond. (The Boston auditions, for example, reportedly drew 7,000 contenders).

You'll have to pay to park in the vicinity or walk from afar. The front of the line is Gate 10. Bring two forms of ID. And remember, those under 18 must bring a parent or guardian.

No, you can't bring a cooler, lawn chair or luggage.

No, you can't play an instrument or tape the proceedings. See the release form and the many other rules on the website, at americanidol.com.

Fox executives encourage you to register online rather than stand in line. Then again, they like the way the early morning mob looks in the promos.

Don't expect to feel the love from Paula. No judges are expected to show up at the Denver auditions, which are run by junior producers. Ryan Seacrest may be on hand Tuesday, however, to tape scene- setting pieces for the audition shows, and to peek in on the auditions.

The "Idol" audition process is a well-oiled machine, with no media allowed inside the audition space. Once the applicants leave the space and emerge outside, the rejects are free to curse their luck and sing for members of the media. Those who have been approved — 100 to 200 will be chosen — are not allowed to sing for the media. Those who win a pass to the next level also must spend 90 minutes reading and signing a waiver and being instructed in media relations. Seriously.

Denver was an audition city for "Idol" in 2005 as well. Chris Daughtry (now known simply as "Daughtry") auditioned here and advanced to the next level on the strength of his rendering of The Boxtops' "The Letter." As fans know, he made it to fourth place as a finalist in Season 5 and has done better than all of the runners-up and some of the winners in terms of record sales.

In ratings terms, the dominance of "Idol" is remarkably undiminished in a TV landscape that is generally shrinking. The Season 8 finale drew nearly 29 million viewers. The show doesn't just win hour- long blocks of prime time, it wins entire nights, multiple times a week. No wonder competitors call the show the "death star."

Finally, a bit of advice for those whose ambitions outstrip their talent. Remember, the bikini thing was done last year. So was the over-the- top fey comedian. You'll have to come up with a new gimmick if you really can't sing but are desperate for screen time.

The show's sole credible judge, Simon Cowell, is on record saying the show lately has lacked big personalities. So bring it.

And don't cover Whitney. 

Source

‘American Idol's' Brooke White previews album in Facebook performance

Brooke White, fifth-place finisher on "American Idol's" seventh season, held a live performance on Facebook this evening, performing a short set of songs from her upcoming album High Hopes & Heartbreak. Noted for her singer-songwriter sound and similarities to such 1970s musicians as Carole King, White embraces the niche she carved for herself on “American Idol” on her second album.

The event got off to a late start and was met with its share of technical problems (video was eschewed for audio; in the infancy of such technology, both could not coexist), but when it finally began 36 minutes late, the voice of a cheery White greeted both live and blind online audiences.

White performed her current single, “Radio Radio,” a slowed-down cover of King of Leon’s popular hit “Use Somebody,” and a “stripped down, acoustic-style” version of the album’s namesake, “High Hopes & Heartbreak,” which White said was inspired by the Bee Gees. Between songs, White responded to audience questions and questions submitted through Facebook/UStream. She enlightened audiences about her submersion in music at a young age, the methods with which she tackles songwriting, and lessons she learned while on “American Idol.”

When asked whether she believed her and Jason Castro’s season seven dabblings into the singer-songwriter sound had paved the path for Kris Allen’s season eight win, she laughed:

Well of course it did!  I mean, I hope so. I was just so grateful when I got to be on the show that I was able to incorporate an instrument. For me, that was definitely very important ... and it really did help me make my own interpretation. And I think Kris was brilliant at it and that’s the reason he’s the American Idol.

With minutes to spare, White revealed her long-awaited announcement: no, she’s not pregnant, but her album High Hopes & Heartbreak will be available on iTunes this coming Tuesday, July 14 -- an entire week early. The music video for her current single, “Radio Radio,” will also become available for free on iTunes on July 14. Physical copies of High Hopes & Heartbreak will hit stores on the album's official release date, July 21.

Source