American Idol

American Idol host Ryan Seacrest wears a big yellow hat during the Atlanta auditions.

We’ve seen auditions in seven cities. American Idol Season 7 is off to a strong start, but what happens to all those Hollywood Week contestants that don’t get TV time during the auditions weeks? Well, tonight we get to see a few more of the bright spots.

Because I’m completely over the terrible singers, I’m continuing to focus on only the best auditions. Sorry for those of you hoping to read some nasty things about the best of the worst. I just can’t do it right now …

Amy Davis sang a version of Blue Bayou. Her audition wasn’t a knockout, but the judges think she has enough potential to maybe be molded into the next big thing. Personally, I think if you don’t have it at the start, you shouldn’t be given that chance. There certainly are plenty of already-good-enough singers in the competition. But maybe Amy will prove me wrong.

Cardin Lee McKinney has a strong voice, but she pushes it a little too hard. Her performance of One Night Only from Dreamgirls is good enough for the judges — at least Paula and Randy. I think she has potential, but I’m not sure she could make it too far. This is another example of a contestant who just isn’t strong enough from the start to really deserve that second chance. (I know, I know. It’s time to get a little more critical, though.)

JoAnne Borgella is a plus-size model. She’s performed the National Anthem at Madison Square Garden. Her Idol audition certainly is one of the best of the season. In fact, she’s an incredible contestant — and I think she has a voice that could stand out in the competition. Simon, however, does not. Fortunately, Paula and Randy are carrying her through to Hollywood. And remember those rumors I’ve referred to several times?

Chikezie Eze auditioned last year, and he’s back again for Season 7. I’m not sure how Randy passed on this guy last year, but I’m glad he didn’t let him go this season. Chikezie has an interesting name, to say the least, and he certainly has potential to prove Randy wrong. If nothing else, his name will set him apart.

Danny Noriega quite possibly is the smallest contestant in the competition. And his voice is one of the biggest. “You’ve got a very good voice,” Simon told him. Even with a little too much confidence, Danny is on his way to Hollywood. Could he be this year’s Sanjaya? I’m not sure, but I do think he could bring something interesting to the show.

So, who’s it going to be? Hollywood Week is just around the corner, and a season of excitement — and still more disappointments, I’m sure — is about to really get rolling. Keep it here for the latest from the stars of tomorrow and the stars from seasons past.

American Idol, Ryan Seacrest, Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul