9,000 hopefuls audition for 'American Idol'

Idols circled Invesco Field by 5 a.m.

At 5 a.m. on July 14, an estimated 9,000 people had circled Invesco Field, all pre-registered contestants ready to show the world their talent on the Fox hit reality show, "American Idol." To register, contestants showed up during Sunday and Monday to sign up.

After two days of anxious waiting, long lines and little sleep, they finally had their shot at earning one of the most sought after titles in the world—as the next "American Idol." 

With Idols who came in from all over the country, Fox producers used Denver not only as chance to find the next star, but as a commercial venture for mainstream advertising of the upcoming ninth season. They packed in thousands of fired up contestants into the area in front of Invesco Field for a filming of the massive crowd.

The entrance was filled in no time with an excess line still snaking its way around the stadium. Everyone waited patiently, using the time to warm up their voices, have a snack or mingle with their competition.

Metromix left the scene as satisfied producers opened the gates to the stadium, where only contestants and the American Idol crew were allowed in.

It is estimated that between 100 and 1000 people will move on to the next round.