If I was an American Idol Judge

American Idol is now in its 6th season. The show has been a success for winners and losers alike. Most times the contestants who make it into the Top 12 are the ones who collect the most success after the season ends. I have some advice for next year's Idol hopefuls. This advice might sound very similar to the advice that the judges give and that might be because they give the same advice every year- and the contestants don't listen! If they did, they might have a better chance of making it to the top.

1. Be Original
How many times have the American Idol judges told a contestant to stand out? Many, many times! For some it comes easy, for others, it is more of a struggle. This year, for example, Stephanie Edwards has a hard time standing out because her voice so closely resembles Beyonce's voice. Not to mention, she looks a lot like Fantasia Barrino, the winner of season 3. Haley Scarnato also has a hard time standing out. So much in fact, that Simon told her he couldn't even remember her name! If you want to make it into the Top 12, people have to know your name and you have to stand out. If you know that your voice sounds like a famous performer or you look like a previous Idol, try to readjust things without sacrificing who you are.

2. Stay Within Your Vocal Range
Some American Idol contestants have had vocal training and others have not. For those who have not, it is very important to identify their vocal strengths and weaknesses. I could tell by listening to Antonella Barba that she had not had professional training. She sang songs that were too low for her voice (and I think Paula mentioned that her upper range was her strongpoint) and this is part of the reason she got sent home just before the Top 12 were chosen. It is crucial to know your vocal range so that you can choose the appropriate songs. The wrong song can hinder your chances of winning. Just ask the judges, who advise contestants to pick the right song nearly every week!