Two Firsts for 'Idol' Audition Show

(EndPlay Staff Reports) - Thursday night’s episode of “American Idol” featured two series firsts: The show highlighted auditions in previously untapped Pittsburgh, and all of the singers shown seemed to have a legitimate chance at getting on the show.

Though viewers didn’t meet any contestants comparable to William Hung or Larry Platt (the “Pants on the Ground” guy from season 9), they were able to check out a number of talented performers. Judges Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson gave 38 “Idol” wannabes golden tickets to advance to Hollywood.

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the Steel City auditions:

Flushing, N.Y.-native Hee Jan Hun starts his audition by saying he’s never let his friends or family hear him sing, seeming awkward and uncomfortable on stage. He then changes his tune when he starts performing; Hun does a spot-on rendition of Michael Bolton’s “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You,” earning the ticket to Hollywood.

Seventeen-year-old Travis Orlando didn’t impress judges with his singing, but with his story. Apparently Orlando auditioned for “Idol” last year, only to be passed over in favor of more talented performers. Since then, his mom has abandoned his family and he’s living in a shelter. Though Lopez said he’s not “coming out with it” vocally, he gets a pass to Hollywood.

Creative, self-described “starving artist” Creighton Fraker impressed judges with an original song. Tyler told Fraker he was “sweetly insane,” while Jackson insisted he was “intrigued” by the artist.

The final audition of the night was also one of the most touching. Waitress Hallie Day has battled drug addiction and a recent suicide attempt, and only tried out under her husband’s insistence. She sings and emotional “I Will Survive” for judges. “I could see you stealing the show,” J. Lo said. “You do have a gift. Your husband is right.”

Tune in for more “American Idol” auditions Sunday, Jan. 22, after the NFC championship game on FOX.