American Idol hosted auditions Sunday and Monday on Lake Coeur d’Alene in Northern Idaho. It’s the show’s first trip to the state. Contestants were invited from all over the country to audition in front of Idol judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie after undergoing two rounds of auditions before Idol producers. According to KZLY, idol hopefuls waited in two boats for their chance to audition. Idol host Ryan Seacrest was walking contestants to and from the boat for their auditions. Seventy or so singers are auditioning in the scenic location.

The judges and Ryan spoke with KZLY:

“Heaven on Earth!” said Perry.

Richie added, “we are going to request that we do all the shoot from here ’cause this, this is the calmest we’ve ever been on a shoot ever!”

Before contestants had the chance to sing their hearts out to them, they met with Seacrest for some last minute tips.

“I just tell them if they make it through their parents can toss me around because there is a lot anxiety going through that door.”

So does Coeur d’Alene have it?

Luke Bryan said, “all we can do is base it off the other places we’ve been and right now Coeur d’Alene is showing up.”

CDA Press has more photos and accounts from hopefuls HERE.

Extra dishes with Ryan, Lionel, Katy and Luke

Ryan Seacrest brought viral sensation Malea Emma to sing for the judges. She’ll be eligible in 2027. As if. The young singer became famous after belting out the anthem before an LA Galaxy soccer game.

Viral Sensation Malea Emma Sings National Anthem for American Idol Judges!