American Idol returns with shock and awe auditions

The first golden tickets to Hollywood were handed out Sunday night on the newest season of American Idol.

The judges – Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie – handed out tickets to singers in Louisville, Kentucky; Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; Los Angeles, California; New York, New York; and Denver, Colorado.

Here are a few highlights from the season premiere:

Walker Burroughs Audition Surprises Lionel Richie! - American Idol 2019 on ABC
Lookout Lionel Richie! This kid is coming for your JOB! 👀
Posted by American Idol on Sunday, March 3, 2019

Johanna Jones Audition Reveals CRAZY Singing Trick! - American Idol 2019 on ABC
How can she still sing after this?! 😳
Posted by American Idol on Friday, March 1, 2019

Kai The Singer Audition Brings Katy Perry To Tears — American Idol 2019 on ABC
"You are here for a reason and a purpose." ❤️ PREACH PAPA LIONEL! 🙌
Posted by American Idol on Friday, March 1, 2019

VoKILLz Audition TERRIFIES Katy Perry and Lionel Richie! — American Idol 2019 on ABC
Start the mosh pit! 🤘 Metal has made it to American Idol!!
Posted by American Idol on Sunday, March 3, 2019

Nick Townsend Audition Reveals Heartbreaking Inspiration — American Idol on ABC
They're shining down on you for this performance, Nick 💙💙
Posted by American Idol on Sunday, March 3, 2019