American Idol is nearing the end of its twenty-third season. Some have claimed that this year’s pool of contestants has been more consistently talented than any other season. While this claim can be debated, it can’t be denied that this season’s contestants have given many stellar performances. Now, that pool has been narrowed to the final ten. Let’s take a look at them.
Breanna Nix
Her American Idol audition caused audiences to squeal at the adorableness of her young son falling asleep in judge Carrie Underwood‘s arms. Ever since then, she has been taking each of her performances one step further than the last. Last night, she covered “Tell Your Heart to Beat Again” as a response to hatred she has been receiving on social media, capturing audience’s hearts.
Canaan James Hill
He has been stimulating people’s faith with his gospel performances throughout this season of American Idol. When he sings, it feels like his faith spreads to the people around him. He continued that tradition last night when he gave a soulful rendition of “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans.
Gabby Samone
She can hold notes and hold them for a long time. Her American Idol journey has been full of memorable, emotional performances. Last night she further demonstrated her talents with her fierce, passionate rendition of “A Song For You” by Donny Hathaway.
Jamal Roberts
He has been entertaining American Idol audiences with strong, powerful vocals and fun dance moves. However, he can also tug on the heartstrings when he wants to, as he demonstrated last night. His rendition of “Heal” by Tom Odell felt like a direct message to the audience, telling them that they can heal from their own difficulties.
John Foster
With his cowboy hat and guitar, he has made his presence memorable with each performance. His voice sounds uncannily like Garth Brooks, which has undoubtedly captured audience’s attention. Last night, he covered “I Told You So” with his unique country twang.
Josh King
The judges told the former airport lounge pianist to “get out of lounge mode,” and he has been following their advice, giving his performances more energy and vigor. His performance of Elton John‘s “I’m Still Standing” in Hawaii was particularly memorable. Last night, he gave a rendition of Celine Dion’s “All By Myself” that moved audiences with its personal message.
Kolbi Jordan
She has one of the strongest voices in the competition. After her audition, she received the Platinum Ticket, meaning she got to skip one of the competition rounds. Her performance last night of “Over the Rainbow” demonstrated her ability to sing new life into a very familiar song.
Maddy Pruitt
The youngest of the finalists, sixteen-year-old Maddy has been wowing audiences with her mature voice and demeanor. She has been able to hold her own against contestants much older than her. Last night, she covered Kelly Clarkson’s “Because of You,” pouring her soul into the music.
Slater Nalley
His country songs have been favorites with American Idol audiences. Last night, he donned a cowboy had and strummed a guitar for a soulful performance. His rendition of “Angel from Montgomery” was simple and emotional, which was all it needed to be.
Thunderstorm Artis
His energy has spread to the audience throughout every one of his American Idol performances. He has the ability to connect with people no matter what he sings, as he demonstrated last night. His rendition of “House of the Rising Sun” was full of strong, powerful delivery.
Conclusion
No matter who ends up winning American Idol this year, they will be very deserving. Of course, this also means that no matter who loses, it will feel unfair that they didn’t win. This year has included a talented group of young performers, which is sure to lead to a stunning finale as the pool gets whilttled down further.
