Episode #2 : American Idol Kansas City

American Idol stopped in David Cook's hometown of Kansas City, Missouri and came out with some very cool hopefuls that get to go on to the Hollywood rounds which we will get to in just a moment but before I start the recap (our version of a recap anyway) I feel compelled to give 2 tips to American Idol wannabes:

#1 Stop Crying. It's not that bad. Most people do not make it as artists.


#2 Whiten your teeth/clean your teeth. For the love of God at least brush your teeth before you go audition for American Idol.

Ok, moving along...

Some of the Top Auditions From Kansas City:

Casey Carlson - the 20 yr. old from Minnesota. She has an original country-ish sound to her voice. I really like her. Yes to Hollywood.

Von Smith - 22 years old. Definitely original, strong voice, natural talent & cute. The younger girls will vote for him if he gets past the Hollywood week. Yes to Hollywood.

Michael Castro - (brother to Jason Castro who placed 4th overall in last season's American Idol). He's just as good as his brother - even the interviews are the same - and he says that he just started singing a few weeks before the audition. WOW! Yes to Hollywood.

Danny Gokey - the 28 yr. old guy with a very heartfelt/tearjerker backstory. I could not imagine what he must be going through. Anyway, he sang great! Randy said, "Crazy vocals. One of the best". Paula said, "Very soulful". Yes to Hollywood.

Anoop - doesn't look like a singer but he sure is! Randy says, "Anoop dog in da house!" Will be looking forward to see how he does in Hollywood week. Yes to Hollywood.

Asa - 28 yr. old father and band director. He sang Michael Jackson's The Way You Make Me Feel and it was good. Reminds me of an older Chris Brown. Randy said, "It was HOT!" Yes to Hollywood.

Lil Rounds - Another backstory - her family's home was destroyed by a Tornado. Simon said, "LOVE her." Yes to Hollywood.

We also got to see a lot of not-so-good contestants with the worst of the night probably being Michael Nicewonder. We knew that one was coming though, right?

So, who were your favorites/least favorite of the night? Do you have a favorite contender right now- someone you see in the top 20?

Stay tuned as we will be dishing on American Idol daily.