News Summary

WAYNE TWP. — Season eight of "American Idol," the hugely popular singing competition, begins tonight, Jan. 13, and fans of the local band Instereo will be tuning in to see how far singer Ryan P.A. Johnson makes it.

According to his agreement with the producers and the Fox television network, Johnson isn't allowed to speak to the media until he is eliminated or wins the competition. But sources close to the band say that Johnson traveled to California last fall for taping after winning a local competition and a regional audition in Louisville.

Also, Internet "spoiler" sites are reporting that Johnson has at least made it to the top 50 performers.

Audition rounds will be broadcast through Jan. 29. Hollywood rounds will be broadcast through Feb. 11. Live broadcasts with season eight finalists begin Feb. 18. Locally, "American Idol" is broadcast at 8 p.m. on WXIX-TV.

For more information on Johnson, visit Instereo's Web site at www.instereo-band.com

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2188 or rjones@coxohio.com.