American Idolis back in business, baby.

You know, the changes you’d expect at this point.

So who got to pluck a golden ticket off the Hollywood ticket rack?

Let’s meet the first group ofAmerican Idolseason 19 contestants.

No, it’s Benson Boone!

He’s very believable!

“They’re gonna swoon over Benson Boone,” Katy exclaims.

She isn’t wrong.

The judges have their fingers crossed that Alex sings like he talks their wishes are granted.

I missed Lionel’s words of wisdom!

Jason navigates the technically challenging arrangement well.

Lionel tells him it “was one of the strongest vocals on this show.”

They welcome him ontoIdolwith open arms.

Anilee List / 20 / Los Angeles, Calif.“Blue” by Aaron TaylorAnilee’s runs, everybody.

It’s all so nice!

Even nicer, she has an excellent audition.

Her voice is soulful and full of emotion and um, did I mention the runs?

That’s a good critique, right there.

DJ Johnson / 18 / Longview, Tex.

“Scars” by DJ JohnsonThis is an intense one.

The judges have DJ’s father come in for support.

Luke suggests trying a different song, but Katy thinks DJ needs to finish this one.

DJ sounds even better the second time around.

Nia Renee / 17 / Little Rock, Ark.

“Chain of Fools” by Aretha FranklinNia is the ray of sunshine we needed in this episode!

She makes the Aretha classic her own and shows off both her power and control.

So, yeah, they like her.

As soon as Katy Perry realizes who she is she asks, “Are you okay?”

“Yes and no,” the teen responds.

The auditions took place back in November 2020, just for some context.

They want her to try something else and to add some artistry to the performance.

The Adele song goes much better.

Lionel is “impressed” by her second song and wants to give her a shot.

Claudia’s headed to Hollywood Week.

Grace explains that her biggest supporter was always her dad.

Then she opens up her mouth and a powerful, soulful voice comes out.

The judges, however, want to hear Grace do a song she can make her own.

She has power and range and control and it brings Luke Bryan to tears.

Katy loved it, too: “I think my milk came in,” she says.

So, there’s that.

And that’s night one ofAmerican Idolseason 19. Who was your favorite audition?

Who are you already looking forward to see take on the hellscape that is Hollywood Week?