'The X-Factor' Hopefuls Wait Hours in Line for a Chance to Audition

Clapping, singing and screams of excitement filled the air at on Sunday as hundreds and hundreds of hopefuls lined up for their for "The X-Factor."

Fox's new reality talent show, produced by Simon Cowell of "American Idol" fame, came to Westlake at 11 a.m. to host auditions. Four grand prize winners, both individuals and groups, will get a spot on the "Fox 8 News In the Morning" show and passes to cut the line at auditions in Chicago April 27.

People stood, or sat, for over four hours in line, bringing folding chairs, provisions and guitars. Despite the long wait, the atmosphere was cheerful.

"It's been really fun just hanging out," said Jake Armes, after finishing a warm-up song on guitar with his sister Jessie-Rose.

"I've gotten to meet some really great people," she said.

Westlake police were present, along with Crocker Park security guards to handle the large crowd.

Aspiring musicians were singing everything from Rufus Wainwright's "Hallelujah" to "Ain't No Sunshine" to original compositions.

"I'm actually going to be singing my own song," said Levi Wilson of Cleveland. "It's a 60s love ballad with some R&B and some soul."

Musical group Echo won Crocker Park's Facebook contest and got to cut the line at auditions Sunday morning. According to the Facebook page, the group was called back for another audition at 4 p.m. Sunday.

To see what other hopefuls sang at their auditions, check out the photo gallery!