American Idol Auditions Go Down in Texas

(EndPlay Staff Reports) - They say everything is bigger in Texas. It must be true: Thursday's episode of American Idol featuring auditions from Galveston was certainly a big improvement over other recent shows.

Even judge Randy Jackson agreed, "It was better than I expected." Here's a quick recap of highlights from auditions held in the Lone Star State:

Kelly Clarkson auditioned for "Idol" in Houston, and many had equally high hopes for Galveston this time. The show started with a dud in Phong Vu, who didn't recognize judge Steven Tyler. Vu said he would sing a Celine Dion song, then instead broke into a Toni Braxton cover. He couldn't win. Jackson said, "God bless him. Wow."

Kristina Sorio used a loan she got to pay for her divorce lawyer to get to Galveston to audition. It must have worked: Her version of Nelly Furtado's "Scared of You" helped earn her a golden ticket to Hollywood.

Even though Ramiro Garcia was born without ears, he certainly has one for music. The minister amazed "Idol" judges with his version of Chris Tomlin's "Amazing Grace." Jennifer Lopez summed it up, "We're taking a leap of faith with you today." His story was touching and feel-good, just how "Idol" likes it, and, of course, he is on his way to Hollywood.

Baylie Brown tried out for the show during season six. She made it to Hollywood, but not much further. Flash forward to the current season and she is back again. This time she does a much-improved rendition of Bon Jovi's "Bed of Roses," which earned her another ticket to Hollywood, leading judges to believe she'll go farther this time.

Can't wait for more "American Idol"? The show will be back Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 8 p.m. EST for more audition fun.