Ryan tests his hand at judging

"Tell Secrest you're the next Secrest"

American Idol audition. One of the funniest auditions ever.

Nick, a software engineer in Seattle, sings Simon's favorite song Unchained Melody. Simon responds "what the bloody hell was that?..... it was almost non-human" poor guy.

Carly Smithson on Hollywood week (2nd audition), covering Heart's "Alone" to get into the top 24 of "American Idol" season 7.

Carly Smithson was the last person to audition for season 7 in San Diego. This is her performance, covering Whitney Houston's version of Chaka Khan's "I'm Every Woman" for "American Idol".

Katrina Darrell calls on Kara Dioguardi

Never kissed a girl, is 19, very close with his dad.

Amy Adams surprises with her powerful voice for the season 3 audition.

Valerie Reyes Auditions believing that she sounds like Mariah Carey.

American Idol 7, Week 2 - Awesome audition by Micheal John from Austrailia.

yikes.

Memphis audition.

Last week, the Top 36 semi-finalists were revealed to the nation and were separated into three groups of 12. Tonight's episode features performances by the first 12 contestants, and America will vote on their favorites.

Contestants from around the country have performed tirelessly, faced the judges and endured the grueling competition during the Hollywood Round. Tonight the judges decide which hopefuls make the final cut and earn coveted spots in the Top 36.