Photo Credit: Frank Micelotta/Getty

Idol Takes the Show on the Road for Summer Tour

Top 10 contestants will offer own 'mini-concerts' for each of the nearly 50 dates

Along with sunny days and warm weather, what makes summer the best season of the year? The American Idols Live! Tour. This year, season seven’s top 10 finalists will kick off the summer series on July 1 in Glendale, Arizona.

This summer's tour is sure to make a splash, but don't expect to see David Archuleta and David Cook team up for the traditional group numbers as touring Idols have done in the past. The finalists from this season will stay within their individual comfort zones. "What struck us about this year's group was the depth of the talent, and we think they'll each pull in their own fan base," Iain Pirie, head of 19 Recordings U.S., which organizes the tour, tells USAToday.com.

In hopes of focusing on each singer's unique flair, producers plan to use extensive lighting and giant video screens to create a distinct mood for each Idol finalist. "As opposed to hearing duets and trios sing, this year it'll be more about the individuals. We'll give them the space and freedom to do their own set. Think of it as coming to see 10 mini-concerts," says Pirie of the tour.

During the 50-date-tour, the talented top 10 will travel from bustling cities such as Los Angeles to smaller towns like West Valley City, Utah and Rosemont, Illinois. Each venue was selected based on how large the fan base was for American Idol. How will the rising stars stay rejuvenated while on the road? Pirie plans to keep them refreshed with luxe tour buses and short driving distances between concert locations.

Talk to Us: Will you see this year’s Idols Live! tour?

BY ASHLEY BAGAN