ABC announced the highly anticipated new season of "American Idol" will premiere March 3^rd. Music legends and judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie return for the new season, along with host Ryan Seacrest and Bobby Bones will be the in-house mentor.

Over the summer, "American Idol" stopped in 24 cities across the country looking for the next singing sensation, including the first-ever visit to Idaho. Fans and viewers at home can follow the inspiring journey of the hopeful singers competing for a ticket to Hollywood.

The journey starts Sunday, March 3 at 8pm ET on ABC, continuing the cross-country search Wednesday, March 6 at 8pm ET in another all-new episode for premiere week. New episodes of "American Idol" will continue to air on Sunday, March 10 at 8pm ET and adds Mondays for five weeks starting March 18 at 8pm ET all on ABC.

Photo credit: ABC/Craig Sjodin