American Idol auditions in New Orleans

They traveled to New Orleans from places all around the Gulf Coast including Mobile, Bay Minette, and Foley. Some even traveled from places as far as Michigan, Illinois, and St. Louis.

Some hopefuls waited in line almost 9 hours. Some have auditioned multiple times. And for some, this is their last chance to become the next American Idol.

"I actually made it to the last round right before you get to the judges and it was just kind of like try again next time you’re not what we’re looking for right now, good job but keep trying, so this is my last time", said Ashley Taylor.

"This is my one shot and I’m ready for it. I’m ready for it", said Miranda Willmore.

Idol Host Ryan Seacrest says New Orleans is the perfect place to hold auditions.

"There’s a lot of charm, a lot of character, a lot of great music that’s come from this city and we’ve had some good luck coming through this area so we’re back to do it once again", said Seacrest.

The final stop in the search for the next American Idol is Oklahoma City. After that, finalists from this round of auditions will go on to sing in front of Idol Executive Producers, and if they wow them, they’ll get the chance to sing in front of Idol judges, and could possible become our next American Idol.