How to be an American Idol
Wanna become the next Carrie Underwood? The latest Kelly Clarkson?
The chance to do so begins this Monday, as auditions for American Idol Season Seven kick off in San Diego. Before the latest batch of hopeful give their pipes a run-through, USA Today asked seven of last year's finalists to offer a few tips...
Jordin Sparks: Know that they're watching to see if you'll crack under pressure. Sing something nobody else is doing, because by the 10th time they've heard it, they're going to cut you off early, and you need all the time they give you. Smile. Dress nice, but not so nice. Maybe smart casual.
Blake Lewis: People have to realize it's a show, and producers want what's best for television. You're trying to get a job. You've got to be yourself and be confident. I didn't view it as television, so it was easy. You're not even singing a whole song. Just be true to yourself. There will always be other auditions.
Jordin Sparks, Blake Lewis and other American Idols have advice for newcomers.
Melinda Doolittle: One of my friends did the whole audition with her eyes closed. She can sing beautifully, but she didn't connect with the judges. Even if you're nervous, look them in the eye. Sing a song you believe in, one that you can really sell. Capture their attention. They're looking for more than singing.
Phil Stacey: You've got to be real. The truth is, I would have left a better impression if I had done the music I wanted to do from the start rather than wait until I was comfortable. Blake went a long way because he was crystal clear about who he is.
Gina Glocksen: Don't get overwhelmed. It's going to be a long day. Don't sing Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston or Etta James. Make yourself be noticed without overdoing it. I remember this girl at the L.A. auditions who looked as if she didn't have a care in the world. She made it through.
Chris Sligh: Be comfortable. Have fun with it, and show some personality. Maybe tell a joke. I mean, three jokes got me to the top 10. Be original, be funny.
Haley Scarnato: Stay true to who you are, which is hard to do when you're on a TV show. Focus on the song and get caught up in that moment so you won't let everything else overwhelm you.
What, nothing from Antonella Barba? She must be too busy planning a major photo shoot with Amy Polumbo or something.
September 25th, 2007 7:01 PM
oh-em-Geee!!!! its my (i wish!) BF BLAKE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 12th, 2007 8:18 PM
Auditions When Does the auditions for 2008 start.
December 1st, 2007 3:01 PM
I AM INTERESTED IN GETTING INFORMATION ON THE NEXT AUDITION FOR AMERICAN IDOL THANK YOU.
December 1st, 2007 3:02 PM
WHEN DO AUDITIONS FOR 2008 START
January 16th, 2008 11:37 AM
I want to become an American idol it has been my wish to become a singer since i was little, some people say i have a beutiful voice, but others dont. That does not stop me i no i have a good voice. I did a solo in a concert last year and i got so many good coments....PLEASE HELP ME BECOME AN AMERICAN IDOL...
February 8th, 2008 10:06 AM
Melinda Doolittle have her song on I Tune February 12,2008 My funny valentine. and also radioshow. www.blogtalkradio.com/momentswithmelinda. so fans can call February 10,2008 at 3pm Est or 4pm CST (646) 716-9978 more info www.melindafan.net
February 13th, 2008 8:24 AM
I WOUL LIKE TO KNOW HOW TO AUDITION FOR JR. AMERICAN IDOL.
February 13th, 2008 10:11 AM
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW HOW TO AUDITION FOR AMERICAN IDOL.
February 20th, 2008 12:57 PM
Melinda Doolittle just release her first song on i tunes My Funny Valentine. If you are a fans www.melindafan.net for fresh new for her album who will be released June 2008
April 11th, 2008 8:52 PM
when do the next auditions start for american idol!! i really want to be on it!! and btw how old do u have to be??!!! plz e-mail me back!!! i need to know!!
May 10th, 2008 8:16 AM
Melinda Doolittle will released her first album July or August 2008. New website for supporting her in her career. www.mdstreetteam.com You welcome to join us.
July 8th, 2008 8:02 AM
Youppi it official the album will be released in fall and she working on Holiday one too I am really happy!
July 9th, 2008 4:59 PM
Update about Melinda first album will be in fall and Holiday cd she work on. To keep you update with Melinda's career www.mdstreetteam.com You are very very welcome to join us Thank to the website to spread the love about Melinda
August 12th, 2008 4:26 PM
This past week Melinda finally finished the vocals on her CD! All of that happens quickly then we will see her CD on shelves this Fall! Also, keep your eye out for her first official single that should be hitting airwaves in the coming weeks. Melinda is going to be throwing a lot of music at us in the coming months so get ready!
New website to support Melinda Career. www.mdstreetteam.com come join us and get to the forum to read what Melinda have to say. She is a amazing singer.