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Let me share with you my favorite auditions for American Idol 2010. I dutifully followed all of their pre-Hollywood Week trips to various cities in the US on TV and have been quite impressed with some of them. I can confidently state that one or all of these wannabes will eventually make it the Top 24 and hopefully, the magical Top 12.

My #1 fave: Andrew Garcia. Even without the heart-warming back story of his parents having been part of gangs and removing their children from the violent environment to grow up normally and with brighter chances of developing into successful individuals, this guy definitely has amazing vocal chops. Even Simon Cowell could not hide his praises for him, just as the hard-to-please guest Judge Katy Perry.

My #2 fave: Jermaine Sellers. He is kind of low profile – shy and unsure about himself even – and that makes his audition even more likeable. Again, I don’t need the back story of him spending a good part of his growing-up life taking care of his sick mother. His singing talents are pure ear-candy and much too good to pass up on. I have a crazy positive feeling about this guy.

My #3 fave: John Park. For sentimental reasons, I have to include an Asian in my list. But aside from that, this Korean-American definitely has a soulful voice that can surprise everyone. As an added clincher, he was able to unleash the kooky/flirty side of guest judge Shania Twain which made for yummy TV viewing. I don’t see John Park as just the token Asian minority who will swing his way to the upper tier this year. I think he can really keep up with the strong talents in the competition.

My #4 fave: Todrick Hall. He has one of the most novel/original audition songs ever. Having performed in Broadway (“The Color Purple”), Todrick is a born performer. His vocal abilities are smooth. He glides into your ear like soft and sweet honey without the stickiness. Guest judge Neil Patrick Harris definitely agrees.

My #5 fave: Erica Rhodes. I must admit that this good-looking girl does not have the best voice during the auditions. But, boy, does she have the all-around charm that can make the boys swoon, the kids idolize (Erica was a former Barney & Friends TV performer as a child), and the general voting public be endeared to. I thought her dominatrix outfit wouldn’t catch up with the judges, but luckily, it did.

Who are your favorites? Hollywood Week will start airing next and this will lead us into finally knowing who the Top 24 are. I know that spoilers are all over the net on who made it to the two dozen pre-finalist slots. But I’m not about to spoil or get spoiled by the same.

Thank God it’s Friday!!!

Video credits: YouTube/Toiletcoffee, AGT2010, doughtfulnottoenjoy1, and deanofmusic913