Yesterday, the American Idol 12 auditions in New Orleans attracted 5,000 hopefuls to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The show’s last auditions in New Orleans took place in 2010.
“Obviously, there’s a lot of charm, a lot of character, a lot of great music that’s come from this city,” said Ryan Seacrest, “and we’ve had some good luck coming through this area so we’re back to do it once again.”
“We’ve seen the broad scope of potential contestants from all walks of life and all genres,” he added. “There are definitely some characters here. We’ll see if they can sing or not.”
Corey Ledet, who is a distant cousin of Season 11 finalist, and Louisiana native, Joshua Ledet, performed with his Zydeco band, leading the kids in a cheer for the cameras. “Welcome to Louisiana, baby!”
Also on hand to cheer up the waiting crowd was Season 10 alum, James Durbin.
“I was here in the exact same place and it’s nerve-wracking. I know what they’re going through,” he said. James even helped two young singers rehearse at a local McDonald’s the night before.
“They just both start belting in McDonald’s and so I guess I was kind of helping them out, coaching them out a little bit while I was ordering my McNuggets,” he said.
“Just relax! I think that’s about it. Be prepared,” was James advice.
Read more at NOLA.com
