Keep your eye on these Kentucky singers hoping to become the next 'American Idol'

Noah Thompson, an unassuming 19-year-old construction worker from Louisa, Kentucky recently auditioned for "American Idol" judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie — and blew their socks off.

"You are the American dream," Perry told Thompson at the end of his audition where he performed "Giving You Up" by Kameron Marlowe.

Thompson, who sings country music and plays guitar, told the judges he had little confidence in his own talent. It was his coworker and friend, Arthur Johnson, who made a video of Thompson singing and sent it to "American Idol" producers.

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Richie told Thompson after his audition, "You've got a real-life, bada** storytelling voice."

Bryan added, "You're why this job is cool. We're really excited to have you."

Obviously, the all-star team of judges voted Thompson through to the next round, which is called Hollywood Week. During Hollywood Week, the top 64 performers from the thousands who auditioned get to perform solo and are given the opportunity to be backed by a full band.

Another Kentuckiana hoping to secure a spot in Hollywood Week is Dakota Hayden. The singer/songwriter from Fordsville, Kentucky, will debut in front of the judges during an upcoming episode on March 13 starting at 8 p.m.

ABC's hit singing competition show "American Idol" has returned with its historic 20th season. After producing successful artists like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry and more, the iconic music talent show is once again ready to discover the next singing sensation of America.

Let's hope the next superstar is one of the contestants from Kentucky.

Reach Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com or Twitter @kirbylouisville.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Noah Thompson, Dakota Hayden of Kentucky hope to win 'American Idol'