American Idol Season 7 kicks off this January 15

Fox's American Idol, the most popular reality singing competition in the world, will be back for another season this January 15, 2008.

The show will still be hosted by Ryan Seacrest and the three cruel but lovable judges are still Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell.

The auditions started as early as July, 2007 in San Diego, California, then 6 more destinations, the last of which was in Philadelphia last August, 2007,

The show promises a more talented batch of contestants, who shall be allowed to play instruments during their performances.

Aside from a singing contract and cash prizes, the winner of American Idol Season 7 will also get the chance to participate in American Idol All Star show, which will feature all the 7 winners of American Idol, from Season 1 to Season 7, and set to premiere later this year.

American Idol Season 7 will have a two-night premiere on January 15 and 16 on FOX (January 16 & 17 in the Philippines via QTV 11).

Here are some photos of those who auditioned for American Idol Season Seven:

Photos courtesy of americanidol.com