First and foremost you need to have an understanding, a positive understanding. A complete understanding of what exactly the American Idol competition represents and how do you fit into their search for the next superstar. Well the truth is that this is more than a talent show. Based on the fact that they plan to release an album on the winner, so they are basically looking for some one to sign more than they are looking for a person that can sing cause right after you passing your audition you are flown to Hollywood where you will have extensive training on your vocal performance and stage presence during a live show, plus different aspects of being interview and a correct way on how to respond. As this competition is a very fast and productive way to develop artist into being able to handle mainstream exposure and the understanding that you need, to know if you fit in to what they are looking for and if you are not what the judges are looking for then you must work on how you can become that and I am going to guide you on your preparation.



MORE THAN A VOICE:

With this section its about singing like a vocalist and not karaoke night. Many singers have mixed signals and run when they should lie. To recondition the mind and the response of the body is not an easy task, but it can be done; however, in a lot of cases with a lot of hardwork. Similarly, I have found that while all people are given a voice, but we all do not know to use it how to use it, at least not the right way. Where you must consider your breathing and position of your head to allow a steady airflow through your vocal cords. As you will be able to find your natural singing voice and a major mistake that a lot of contestants make is to sound like other artist or like certain songs that they have liked. But the judges can tell if you are imitating an artists singing voice or if you are the real deal and to disrespect them by trying fooling them would be an automatic rejection, so try to sing with out your favorite cd playing so you can be able to critique your own voice as you should also try to sing low range, mid range, and high through the song just to strengthen the position and movement of your vocal cords and Adams apple.

In conclusion, singing, like almost any other discipline, is based on conditioning. If your voice is conditioned the right way, you will sound better than you ever imagined. For more insights into how you can correctly condition your voice and mind, look for my future columns, on this site.

THE IMAGE:

The way that you look can make your career or break it, only cause it basically boils down to the fact that if you dont love your self enough to take care of your body and appearance you definitely do not care about your singing career. As your body is the vehicle that takes you through out the whole competition, your career and lifetime. So here are some things that you can do before the competition to get you up to par.

Good skin care is the best start. By using moisturizing soaps and lotion are the main ways you can improve the look of your skin. As the skins natural glow will definitely add to your star power. As with acne there are lots of creams, soaps, cleansers, and medications to treat spots and acne treatments. Try a medicated soap, a cream to apply to the spots. Change products if they are not working. Don't put up with bad acne. Antibiotics and specialized creams will help to get rid of them to. As your confidence in your self will improve 100%, which in turn will improve your chances for success?

Body odor is an automatic failure. A bit of body smell can be a huge disadvantage as any amounts of a bad stench are a definite no-no. Wash and shower as often as necessary before the competition and always drink lots of water to release any toxins from your sweat as you might sweat during your performance. Anti per aspirants and deodorants help regulate odor and sweat, as its always good to use cologne or perfumes, but not too much.

Try to get your hair together cause a good haircut or hair do just says that you are a star. Remember that the more expensive salons tend to keep up to date with fashion trends and products and can offer hair care that makes the most of what you have. Use a good shampoo that is appropriate for your hair type and makes your hair look good.

If you want to change your hair color the best way is to get it done professionally. Badly done color changes can leave a bad impression, unless of course bizarre is good for your alternative image.

A balanced diet containing fresh vegetables and fruit is good. It keeps you healthy and it also improves skin and hair. Try limiting your fast food intake. Dietary food supplements and vitamins can help when a normal healthy diet is not possible.

Get enough exercise. As a matter of fact try to get into shape. Use all opportunities to avoid a couch potato life. Walk rather than take the elevator. Avoid using your car for very short journeys. Joining a gym or sports club will encourage you to exercise. Or how about if you exercise then you will better your chances at American idol success, as that should be enough encouragement.