The Fillmore Detroit and the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin welcomed the American Idol crew to Michigan, according to the Associated Press.

The soul diva served as a mentor to the remaining 12 male and 12 female contestants of the long running competition singing show. Host Ryan Seacrest along with judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Junior were on hand to critique performances by contestants that had been working with Franklin.

Franklin is so proud of her hometown and was excited to show it off to the country.  Urban said that having Franklin associated with the show is a "huge deal."

She not only mentored, she hit the stage as well.

The first episode in Detroit aired Wednesday night.  The next episode is scheduled to air Thursday.

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