American Idol Goes to St. Louis

(EndPlay Staff Reports) - Thursday night's episode of "American Idol" took viewers to Missouri, "The Show Me State," but only actually showed highlights from a handful of auditions. In all, 46 golden tickets were given out in St. Louis.

Here's a quick recap of the episode:

Carrie Underwood originally auditioned for "Idol" in St. Louis. She's not the only talented lady in the heartland: Lauren Gray took the stage with confidence and wowed judges. Judge Jennifer Lopez told Gray that she had "one of the best female voices" the judges had heard.

Rachelle Lamb had fun with her audition. The recently-divorced singer performed a song her ex-husband hated and let her young daughter dance with her in front of judges. Her version of Molly Hatchet's "Find Someone New" was fun and fresh, and her touching backstory helped her earn a golden ticket.

STL-native Reis Kleockener also came to judges with a moving past: He was bullied in high schools, but got through it thanks to his involvement with choir. His version of "Lean on Me," was touching. "That was so beautiful you made me cry," judge Steven Tyler said.

John Keyser came all the way from Florida to audition for "Idol" in St. Louis. The trek was definitely worth it, though: He wowed judges with his renditions of Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come." Changes might be coming for Keyser, as his soft falsetto might just change his life. He scored a golden ticket.

Viewers were also given a special treat Thursday night as Madonna shared a sneak peak at her latest video for the single "Give Me All Your Luvin," featuring Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. The song will be the first single off her 12th album. Can't get enough of the Material Girl? Madonna will perform during the Super Bowl Halftime show on Sunday.

"American Idol" is back next week with Hollywood Rounds, starting Feb. 8 at 8 p.m. EST.