How to Get Through to the Judges Audition on American Idol Even If You Can't Sing

American Idol is a cultural sensation, and everybody wants to be a part of the fame. With Simon Cowell's acceptance of the sour-voiced bikini girl and a few other less-than-talented vocal contestants, it has become clear this year that American Idol isn't about the singing anymore; it's all entertainment.

American Idol auditions are done city-by city, and you have to stand in some serious lines with thousands of other people to get there. In order to get in the door to meet the television judges of American Idol, you have to get past their screening judges.

Get there early.

Be prepared to wait in line for a really long time. Some American Idol contestants, such as my sister, stayed in line for days. The closer to the front you are, of course, the more likely you are to get in.

Stay in line.

You can have some of the other contestants in line hold your spot, but if you leave the line, you probably won't get noticed by American Idol's screeners as a candidate for a pass to the higher levels of the audition process. Know where the nearest food, drink and restroom are so you can be sure to spend as little time out of line as possible.

Bring something to sit on, water, and snacks.

You will need provisions while you're standing in line. Depending on which city you're auditioning in, you could be in line for literally days. You may need to bring a sleeping bag.

Wear something Unique.

If you want to get in to see the judges on American Idol, wear something that makes you stand out. There are preliminary screeners who hand out passes while audition contestants are in line, and if you are wearing something sexy, flashy or silly, you will be more likely to be brought in front of the judges for entertainment value. If you're a good singer, of course, standard audition gear is best, but if you're less experienced, a flashy costume will get you past the judges and on TV. Have some taste, though.

Make friends in line.

The judges of American Idol are looking for someone who is going to become popular with its fans. What better way to tell than to choose someone who is popular with its fans in the audition line? Having a large support group among other auditioners can nudge you through to Hollywood by the skin of your teeth.

Keep your voice warm and be ready.

You have one shot at the audition. Sip warm tea, avoid milk and soda, and do periodic vocal warm-ups, because you never know when you're going to be called up to sing. Participants are sometimes even asked to sing while in line, so always be ready.

Have a good story.

If your dog died on the way to the auditions, or you have a terminal disease, or your uncle's a famous producer, or your mom's dying cancer wish was for you to audition on American Idol, you are a shoo-in for a session with the judges. Once you are inside, of course, you need to prove yourself, but if you have a touching story, you are much more likely to endear yourself to the judges and the American people. Draw attention to yourself and your story.

Pick a song you know well and practice it incessantly.

It's probable that you will not be able to sing your favorite song at audition because it's not on the list. Once you find out which songs are up for the audition, practice them until they are a part of you. Get a copy of the lyrics and read them in line. Practice with other contestants.

Audition with a friend.

Birds of a feather who flock together seem to have a better chance of standing up in front of the judges than those who fly solo. Bring a friend, make up a group act and have it ready for the judges. After you do your group thing, they will give you a shot at solo singing.

Show up at multiple auditions.

If this is really your dream, and you don't make it in to the judges on the first audition you go to, go to a second. And a third. Draw attention to yourself every time, and make sure that the judges and Ryan Seacrest get a glimpse of you each time. Eventually, someone will probably recognize you and bring you in.

American Idol is not a talent competition after all; it's an entertainment competition. With these tips and a healthy dose of luck, you may find yourself onstage, on television and in front of all of the world, singing your heart out.