Shame on you parent and friends who allow your children/friends audition at American Idol. I mean really. Yes, little Kathy is the apple of your eye, but now everybody knows Kathy sings like a cat in heat, and your best friend Debbi not only can't sing, but apparently can't dress herself either.
You wanna be good to a person. Tell them the truth. Gently, but do it.
OTOH, I laughed my ass of at your sons, daughters, and friends so maybe you should just lead them on some more. What do I know.