American Idol: Tryout Tips and Inside Advice

I recently had a chat with a co-writing partner, producer, and long time legend, Amir Bayyan of the Khalis Brothers, and bassist of the group “Kool & The Gang.” Amir has been a legendary musician for many years and is also a close acquaintance of American Idol Judge Randy Jackson, and long time friend of Paula Abdul. I used this opportunity to gather tips on trying out for American Idol. After the brief conversation, here are a few tips that I was able to gather from the conversation:

1.) Try to get some sort of vocal training: You can join your local choir, your college choir, or just practice singing to music. If you’re going to practice singing at home without any training at all, pick up a micro cassette recorder at your local Best Buy, Target, or Office Depot, and record your sessions. Have someone listen to it, like a friend or a friend’s friend critique it. Do not have your mother listen to your tape because more than likely, she would rather lie to you, then tell you that you should never open your mouth again to hum a melody! 

2.) First, find out the exact location of the American Idol audition in your city or state. Plan your travel time and expenses. If you cannot make it to the auditions scheduled for your area, try to make it to the next audition. 

3.) Arrive as early as you can and make plans for your lodging: Some people have camped out on sidewalks, in their cars, or stayed in hotels. 

4.) Bring lots of food/snacks, changes of clothing, toiletries, possible sleeping bag, pillows, a tent, water, honey, lemons, tea and tea cups. Also bring along a little cart to hold your items in for when the line starts moving. 

5.) Make a few friends in line for company and comfort. Be friendly because you never know who may end up in the same hotel room with you in the semi finals before the final 20 are selected!