Ep 1. Auditions 1

Auditions for the 18th season of American Idol are finally underway, and the first episode is filled with excitement, nerves, and raw talent. The judges - Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan - are back in their seats, ready to find the next superstar.

The episode begins in Savannah, Georgia where the first contestant, Faith Becnel, auditioned with a rendition of "Ain't Nobody" by Chaka Khan. Her unique voice and soulful performance immediately caught the judges' attention and earned her a golden ticket to Hollywood.

Next up was Franklin Boone, a North Carolina native, sang the classic "Dreams" by Fleetwood Mac. He had a smooth, melodic voice that left the judges amazed, securing him another golden ticket for the next round.

Shannon Gibbons, a high school student from Pennsylvania, sang an original piece about her parents. While her lyrics were heartfelt and personal, the judges felt her nerves got the best of her. They decided to send her home to work on her confidence and come back next year.

The judges were delighted and surprised when they heard Lauren Spencer-Smith, a 16-year-old from Canada, sing "What About Us" by Pink. Her powerful vocals and incredible range impressed the judges and secured her golden ticket to Hollywood.

Doug Kiker, a garbage man from Alabama, sang "Bless the Broken Road" by Rascal Flatts. Kiker's voice brought a smile to the judges' faces, but his lack of experience made it difficult to move on to the next round. However, Katy Perry, always one to root for the underdog, decided to give him a chance and gave him a golden ticket, much to the shock of Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.

Genavieve Linkowski, who auditioned in season 16, returned this year and sang "In My Blood" by Shawn Mendes, showing off her powerful vocals and stunning range. The judges were impressed and gave her a golden ticket to Hollywood.

Nick Merico, who auditioned in season 17 but didn't make it past Hollywood Week, returned with a new look and a new attitude. He sang "Back to Black" by Amy Winehouse, showing off his smooth vocals and impressive range, earning himself a golden ticket to the next round.

Margie Mays, a fun-loving contestant from Wilmington, Delaware, sang "All About That Bass" by Meghan Trainor. Her quirky personality and unique voice charmed the judges, earning her a golden ticket.

Jovin Webb, a Louisiana native, performed "Whipping Post" by The Allman Brothers Band, showcasing his bluesy and soulful voice. The judges were impressed and gave him a golden ticket to Hollywood.

Finally, Louis Knight, a British native from Philadelphia, sang his original song "Change" about his late friend. His raw emotion and beautiful voice moved the judges to tears and earned him a golden ticket to Hollywood.

Overall, the first episode of American Idol's 18th season was filled with stunning vocals, emotional performances, and inspiring stories. The judges had their work cut out for them, but they managed to find some incredible talent that is sure to make this season one to remember.