'Idol Across America' bringing virtual auditions to Illinois next week

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Do you have what it takes to become the next American Idol?

Virtual auditions for singers from Illinois are Monday.

One of the key producers looking for next season's contestants told ABC7's Hosea Sanders how you can take the first step to the spotlight.

It's where other talent from Illinois has found a place to shine!

"What do you have to lose? Or, what do you have to win? You can look at it any way you want," said Senior Supervising Producer Patrick Lynn.

Lynn said it is easy to register for "Idol Across America."

"You can go to AmericanIdol.com, you can pick your state and your time, sign up, and we'll send you a link to a Zoom room," Lynn said. "Let me know that you're from Illinois, and you're here to win American Idol."

Grace Kinstler auditioned from her hometown of Lakewood.

"I was in my den in the comfort of my home. It was a little more chill, more calm, but I had to remember to keep the energy up," Kinstler said.

Leah Marlene, from Illinois, auditioned on a whim.

"I'm so eternally grateful I got to share myself with America, and I want to do this for the rest of my life," Marlene said.

She made the top three.

"Yeah, that says that it's anybody's ball game here at 'American Idol,' so we really encourage people to give it a shot," Lynn said.

Lynn also talked about how the judges know when somebody has that magic.

"We're looking for potential. We're looking for that little tiny spark that we know can grow as they go on the show," Lynn said.

Chicago's dream girl, Jennifer Hudson, didn't make it to the Idol finals. She went on to win an Oscar, a Grammy, a Tony and an Emmy instead!

"I think Jennifer Hudson is that perfect example. She came on the show, did her best, and when she left the show, she really worked hard. And, she's a superstar," Lynn said. "Pick a good song, sing a good song, perform a good song. Those three things go hand in hand, and there's no time like today to sign up and try for American Idol.'

You must be at least 15 years old and other eligibility requirements also apply.

For more information and to register for a chance to audition, visit https://abc.com/shows/american-idol/auditions.