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Season 23 of American Idol continues to excite fans as auditions progressed during the episode aired on March 23. A fresh wave of talented hopefuls took the stage, eager to impress the judges and secure their coveted golden tickets to Hollywood.
Judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie were once again on hand to evaluate the performances, each artist bringing not only their vocal talents but also compelling backstories.
Here’s a recap of the standout performances from Week 3.
Penny Samar
The night kicked off with 23-year-old Penny Samar from Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Supported by a group of 15 friends and family members, she delivered a rendition of “Pink Pony Club” by Chappell Roan.
Disney/Eric McCandless
The judges noted her strong vocals, yet Underwood expressed concern over excessive facial expressions, suggesting Penny focus more on the singing than the dramatics. Despite mixed reviews, Penny received a yes from Underwood and a golden ticket to Hollywood.
Jamier
Nineteen-year-old Jamier from Buffalo, New York, took the opportunity to share a deeply personal story about supporting his younger siblings after his mother left an abusive relationship. He performed “Lose Control” by Teddy Swims, impressing the judges with his vocal runs.
Disney/Eric McCandless
Richie praised the performance, while Bryan cautioned him about over-relying on vocal embellishments. Despite their critiques, Jamier received unanimous approval and his ticket to Hollywood.
Sophia Humbert
Sophia Humbert, a musician from Anthem, Arizona, presented a stripped-down piano version of “Before He Cheats,” originally by Underwood. The performance, though well-received, lacked the emotional intensity the judges hoped for.
Disney/Eric McCandless
Underwood encouraged her to channel deeper emotions. After a playful outdoor challenge that involved smashing a pickup truck with a baseball bat, the judges recognized a significant improvement, leading to a yes for Sophia.
Mattie Pruitt
At only 15, Mattie Pruitt appeared with country artist Craig Campbell, who accompanied her on the piano for her performance of “How Could You” by Jessie Murph. Her mature voice impressed the judges.
Disney/Eric McCandless
Underwood remarked on her vocal maturity, and Campbell encouraged the judges to recognize Mattie’s potential. With three enthusiastic yeses, she secured her ticket to Hollywood, along with valuable advice from Underwood about stage presence and confidence.
Calen Santos
Calen Santos from Alabama, a 27-year-old executive assistant, attempted to charm the judges with “What You Won’t Do for Love,” incorporating a personal twist into the lyrics for Underwood. However, the judges felt he needed more time before heading to Hollywood.
Disney/Eric McCandless
Despite his entertaining approach, he did not advance in the competition.
Phoebe White
Fifteen-year-old Phoebe White from Kentucky came with a guitar and performed a yodeling piece. While Underwood acknowledged her talent, it ultimately wasn’t a fit for the show, leading to the judges’ decision not to move her forward.
John Foster
The 18-year-old college student John Foster impressed the judges after sharing Cajun food. His initial song, “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” earned applause, but they pressed him to show a broader vocal range.
Disney/Eric McCandless
His subsequent performance of “Goodbye Time” by Conway Twitty showcased his abilities more effectively, leading to unanimous approval for his golden ticket.
Nina Daig
Nina Daig, a 25-year-old server from Virginia, made her audition special by performing an original song dedicated to her brother, who has significant health challenges. The emotional delivery touched Underwood deeply.
Disney/Eric McCandless
The judges recognized her potential but suggested she work on her experience and confidence, resulting in a split decision, though she ultimately received three yeses to move forward.
Desmond Roberts
Desmond Roberts, a 26-year-old music teacher from Los Angeles, impressed with his rendition of “Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone. Underwood found his performance unique and sought to understand his creative choices.
Disney/Eric McCandless
His undeniable talent earned him three yeses, securing his place in Hollywood.
Jamal Roberts
Jamal Roberts, a physical education teacher from Mississippi, took to the stage next. After years of dreaming about auditioning, he performed “Mary Jane” by Rick James. The judges encouraged him to express more confidence and charisma in his performance.
Disney/Eric McCandless
In spite of the feedback, Jamal received three yeses, allowing him to advance.
Caroline Woodfill
Caroline Woodfill brought humor to her audition with an original song titled “Diner With the Tea,” about small-town gossip. Though she entertained the judges, they ultimately decided it was not a fit for the show.
Disney/Eric McCandless
Her journey ended here, but her personality shone brightly.
Drew Ryn
Eager to follow in Underwood’s footsteps, Drew Ryn performed her original song “Walk on Water.” Her admiration for Underwood was clear, and her performance impressed the judges.
Disney/Eric McCandless
They praised her songwriting abilities and delivery, granting her a golden ticket to Hollywood.
Sam Sparks
Sam Sparks, a 25-year-old musician from Arkansas, shared his inspiring story of overcoming paralysis after a car accident. His original song “Colorado Gray” showcased his unique vocal sound, which struck a chord with the judges.
Disney/Eric McCandless
His moving narrative and talent earned him three yeses and a ticket to Hollywood.
Mae Mae
High school student Mae Mae brought her father, songwriter Toby Gad, to her audition, where she performed “No Matter What.” Although the judges appreciated her voice, they felt she needed refinement.
Disney/Eric McCandless
While Underwood saw potential in Mae Mae, the majority decision resulted in a no, but the door remains open for her future return.
Lola Bonfiglio
Lola Bonfiglio, accompanied by her mom and aunt from Wilson Phillips, sang their classic song “Hold On.” Underwood then requested a solo performance, leading Lola to impress the judges with “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves, despite receiving constructive criticism on her vocal technique.
Disney/Eric McCandless
While she earned a yes from Underwood, it wasn’t enough to counter the no votes from Bryan and Richie, preventing her from advancing.
Freddie McClendon
Freddie McClendon closed the night with an emotional original song dedicated to his late father. His heartfelt performance resonated deeply with the judges, culminating in tears from Underwood.
Disney/Eric McCandless
His moving tribute and strong voice earned him unanimous approval and a ticket to Hollywood.
American Idol, Season 23, Sundays, 8/7c, ABC
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