Another ‘Idol’ change has occurred! Paige Anne, who had previously been eliminated, was reinstated to the top 26.
The final 13 American Idol candidates are taking the stage in an effort to win America’s support and proceed further in the competition. As a mentor, Allen Stone is replaced by Noah Cyrus. Chris Janson’s energetic and entertaining version of “Good Vibes” by Elijah McCormick serves as the opening act.
Elijah receives praise from Lionel Richie for his “great performance,” but the singer urges him to “attack even more” the following time. Luke Bryan agrees that the singer “nailed” his performance, while Katy Perry says it was a “great start of the night.”
Having been eliminated, Paige Anne is again back among the top 26. (ABC)
The judges’ first alternate, Paige Anne, won the show because one of the initial top 26 singers had to withdraw from the competition. Even though she was eliminated, she is making the most of being welcomed back. She impresses with her rendition of Miley Cyrus‘ “Wrecking Ball”. Although Katy acknowledges that she dislikes being proven incorrect, she thought Paige’s performance ended with “super pro class.” And she continues, “You belong here.”
Luke points out that luck can play a role in the entertainment industry sometimes, and he commends Paige for grabbing the opportunity. “That was just wonderful in every way. You nailed it, says Lionel.
“Heart Like A Truck” by Lainey Wilson is performed by Marybeth Byrd. According to Luke, the music selection was “perfect” for Marybeth. He acknowledges that the performance was “a little shaky” towards the conclusion, but he believes the singer is “really big country star material.”
The cover of Miley Cyrus and Stevie Nicks’ “Edge of Midnight” by Wé Ani is stunning. Even after the act is ended, Lionel is still applauding. “Stage presence is something you either have or don’t. You are a star, my dear,” he says. “I love what you do,” the speaker said. It’s really sweet to see Wé’s father encouraging her from the crowd.
Hawaii performances by Wé Ani. (ABC)
In honour of his parents’ 40th wedding anniversary, Michael Williams performs a touching cover of Jake Scott’s song “Tuesdays.” About to be speechless from the performance is Katy. She praised Michael’s “so beautiful, so well delivered” performance and felt “lucky” to have him on Idol. According to her, he will “be a star with or without us.” This performance is described by Luke as Michael’s “defining moment.”
Dawson Wayne performs “copycat” by Billie Eilish, which is different from what he has typically done. That’s something Luke notices, and he remarks that he favours Dawson’s voice in that “sweet, sensitive range.” Lionel calls the music selection a “risk” and asks supporters to vote for Dawson because she is “amazing.”
Hannah Nicolaisen has another cause to rejoice because she got engaged! A stunning cover of Pink’s “Glitter In The Air” is given by the former volleyball player. Hannah perseveres through the performance despite being ill. Lionel applauds her for persevering despite feeling unwell. Luke continues by saying that Hannah has “shown more growth” than anyone else.
While in Hawaii, Megan Danielle is commemorating her 21st birthday. Her rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain” grabs attention on stage. Megan “comes out so effortlessly,” says Katy, and her voice “stands out from a lot of the other contestants tonight,” according to Katy.
Malik Heard’s rendition of Paramore’s “Ain’t It Fun” shakes things up. Luke claims that Malik’s performance was “by far” his best one to yet. Malik, according to Lionel, is “on fire!” Malik, according to Katy, is “coming in a little bit like a dark horse” and “could” take first place.
Oliva Soli performs Mariah Carey’s “Motions” and once again demonstrates her amazing vocal range. Olivia is informed by Lionel that she most certainly has a “career” in music. Olivia is “a couple steps above a lot of people in this competition,” according to Luke.
On “American Idol,” Colin Stough has a blast. (ABC)
Without his hat, Colin Stough appears to be a full-fledged heartthrob! She said that when he is with Noah, he reminds her of her father Billy Ray Cyrus. The Steeldrivers‘ “Midnight Train to Memphis” gets Colin grooving. Katy acknowledges that she thought Colin was “going in and out just a touch” and exhorts Colin to bring it the next time with all of his confidence. “I believe you are still determining what your level of confidence is. Luke comments, “You truly deserve to be here.
“It Will Rain” by Bruno Mars is performed by Tyson Venegas. He hears from Katy that he was “playing too much” for the crowd. She does, however, agree that he has “tremendous talent and can sing circles around all of us.”
Nutsa’s performance is the last of the top 26. With her cover of “Paris (Ooh La La)” by Grace Potter and The Nocturnals, she astounds. Nutsa hears Lionel compliment her on being “so wonderful to watch.” Katy counsels Nutsa to “flip the script” with her performance the following time.
