How to approach a singing audition and get on the television singing competition American Idol. Ideas to get to Hollywood, on TV and funny tips on what not to do, too.

Many people want to audition and get into the top 12 on the American Idol singing talent search. With luck and skill, one hopes to become the next American Odol.

Who Will Be the Next American Idol?

Depending on the time of year, the American Idol television show will either be planning for a new season, playing shows on television, or holding auditions and try-outs for the next season’s shows. Whatever the time, one can be practicing vocals, working on image and moves, watching contestants for ideas and tips, and getting real-life performing experience.

Following are some serious and humorous ideas to help during the audition process, once auditions begin (check the Idol website for updates on cities and dates).

Facing the American Idol Judges: Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Paula Abdul

American Idol judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Paula Abdul are looking for the best of the best singers in all of America at auditions. Yet time after time, average to slightly bad to horrible singers continue to try out. Perhaps one can learn from mistakes made in prior years.

Avoid Looks and Outfits Worn by Past Auditioners

Trying to look like past idols (such a re-doing a Clay Aiken “nerdy look” or a Carrie Underwood “sweet and very country blonde look”) never works. Don’t copy anyone else. Be yourself.

In addition, avoid outfits like these worn in past season auditions:

• A Statue of Liberty costume
• A massive t-shirt
• A chicken suit
• A Princess Leia pseudo-Star Wars uniform and hairdo
• A cow outfit, complete with udder
• An over-the-top "I'm a Star" glitter and glitz outfit
• An outfit to strip off to reveal an even stranger outfit

Don't bring any of the following props brought by past losers:

• A giant fan that says "A Big American Idol Fan"
• A poster idolizing any one of the judges in a freakish way
• A spinning hubcap
• A baggie full of human fingernail clippings

Tips for Saving Face When an American Idol Audition Goes Badly

• When Simon says "Stop Singing," stop singing – now.
• If Randy, Paula, and Simon start laughing, save a little dignity and leave the room.
• Contestants need to keep rude comments to themselves, or the whole world will see them that way.

How to Get on American Idol "Gag Reels,” (but Not Into the Competition)

• Sing very badly - Very, very badly. But be convincing.
• Bring Mom, but only if she will wail loudly or fall on the floor in an emotional heap.
• Have a hissy fit and yell all the way down the hall and into the street.

Ideas for Actually Going to Hollywood on American Idol

• Dress cool, yet somewhat normally... not too weird or too boring.
• Walk in with confidence and poise, without being cocky or conceited.
• Smile.
• Be likable.
• Be from this planet.
• Be able to sing better than everyone else in America. Average or good is not good enough.

That last one is the real key. Read that one twice.

Also see American Idol Top 5 Singers 2008, David Archuleta American Idol 2008 and American Idol Favorite Quotes 2008.

Also see this Squidoo Lens site on American Idol - tons of videos, info, more! Check out this David Cook American Idol 2008 website for videos, products, great photos, and news about David.

Quote from Aretha Franklin About Singing

“Being a singer is a natural gift. It means I'm using to the highest degree possible the gift that God gave me to use. I'm happy with that.” - Aretha Franklin

Resources

American Idol Television Show, Fox Television Network

American Idol Website (link above)

ThinkExist.com Quotations. “Singers and singing quotes”.