American Idol: Ready for Hollywood

American Idol season seven finished its first round of auditions and next will begin “Hollywood Week.”  In past seasons the Hollywood rounds have provided us with group auditions that always create contestant drama.

It takes an excellent singer to stand out in the second round of Idol auditions.  Though always unpredictable, a few contestants are predicted to be favorites.

Leo Marlowe, from the Omaha, Neb., auditions, showed the judges his striking vocals and charming personality.  Viewers can expect Marlowe to be a strong contender in Hollywood.  David Cook, also from the Omaha auditions, will stand apart with his unique rocker voice if he can learn some showmanship in his performance.

Keep your attention on Corliss Smith and Brittnay Wescott next week.  These best friends from the Miami, Fla., auditions will be fierce competition.  Smith and Wescott have the voices and the humor to keep America interested.

Another pair of gifted contestants, Jeffery Lamkin and his sister Michelle Lampkin, auditioned in Charleston, S.C.  Jeffery Lamkin shows promise of breezing through the Hollywood rounds.  While Michelle Lamkin can sing well, her voice is not as good as her competition.  Viewers can expect Jeffery Lamkin to move on, leaving his sister behind.

Amanda Overmyer, from the Atlanta, Ga., auditions, will be an interesting contestant to watch.  Her raspy sound can be compared to the voice of Janice Joplin.  While she seems to have a refreshing distinctiveness from the pop genre contestants, she may not be the voice the judges are looking for.  Next week will make or break Overmyer.

American Idol’s “Hollywood Week” season seven will be a must-see for avid fans.  Catch the excitement Tuesday and Wednesday at 8/7 c on FOX.