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American Idol returns with shock and awe auditions

AMERICAN IDOL - ABC's "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest with judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan. (ABC/Craig Sjodin)

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

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