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In the latest episode of American Idol, the Top 12 contestants paid tribute to memorable moments from the show’s history, with Season 3 champion Fantasia Barrino as their mentor. Joining the audience as an artist-in-residence was Jelly Roll, while judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan offered their critiques throughout the evening.
After all performances, host Ryan Seacrest will announce which two contestants are eliminated, determining the Top 10.
Fantasia herself created a defining moment during her Season 3 run when she performed “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess. This standout performance occurred on April 15, 2004, during a week when contestants sang tunes from movies. It left lasting impressions, with original judge Randy Jackson declaring it “the single best Idol performance of any season.” Paula Abdul described it as “Oscar-winning,” while Simon Cowell expressed that her performance exemplified the magic that was often missing from other acts.
The “Iconic Idol Moments” episode of American Idol aired live on Monday, April 28, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Audiences were encouraged to follow along with the live blog and cast their votes for their favorite performances after the Top 12 showcased their talents.
8 p.m. — In a recap leading up to this episode, the Top 12 finalists were revealed after performances honoring Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends. Viewers voted in Gold Derby’s poll, with Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Slater Nalley emerging as fan favorites. Amanda Barise and Desmond Roberts were unfortunately eliminated.
Slater Nalley
Age: 18
Hometown: Atlanta
Performance: “Angel From Montgomery” by John Prine
Carrie’s comments: “Every time you perform, I can envision what your debut album will sound like.”
Lionel’s comments: “It’s fantastic to see your confidence shining through. Your stage presence is captivating.”
Luke’s comments: “Continue enjoying yourself and keep up the great work!”
Ché
Age: 28
Hometown: Essex, England
Performance: “Dancing On My Own” by Robyn
Carrie’s comments: “You turned a well-known song into something uniquely yours, which is the key to winning votes.”
Lionel’s comments: “Your delivery was impeccable! Now aim for the next level.”
Luke’s comments: “It’s impressive to see how you’ve intensified your performances since we saved you.”
Thunderstorm Artis
Age: 29
Hometown: Haleiwa, Hawaii
Performance: “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals
Carrie’s comments: “Your song choice was spot on — simply fantastic.”
Lionel’s comments: “You truly infused your essence into the performance! It was phenomenal.”
Luke’s comments: “The audience’s reaction spoke volumes about your impact today.”
Kolbi Jordan
Age: 26
Hometown: Tulsa, Okla.
Performance: “Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland
Carrie’s comments: “You seemed to be in your own universe. Your emotions were palpable.”
Lionel’s comments: “That was divine — simply stunning!”
Luke’s comments: “You took us on a cosmic journey with that performance.”
8:35 p.m. — Fantasia returned to the stage for a performance of her new single, “Have Your Way,” before continuing with the competition.
Filo
Age: 23
Hometown: Dublin, Calif.
Performance: “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” by Jennifer Hudson
Carrie’s comments: “Keep performing like that, and you have nowhere to go but up.”
Lionel’s comments: “That was your best performance yet.”
Luke’s comments: “Fantasia helped you unlock something special tonight. You really delivered at the end!”
Mattie Pruitt
Age: 16
Hometown: Eagleville, Tenn.
Performance: “Because of You” by Kelly Clarkson
Carrie’s comments: “With every performance, you seem to connect more deeply with the music. Keep it up!”
Lionel’s comments: “That was a demanding song, and you executed it beautifully.”
Luke’s comments: “You’re doing a phenomenal job. Keep evolving!”
Canaan James Hill
Age: 17
Hometown: Dallas
Performance: “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans
Carrie’s comments: “Thank you for that performance.”
Lionel’s comments: “You infused so much feeling into that song; I commend you for another outstanding performance.”
Luke’s comments: “You uplift everyone with your voice every time you sing.”
Gabby Samone
Age: 23
Hometown: Baltimore
Performance: “A Song for You” by Donny Hathaway
Carrie’s comments: “Wow! That was flawless.”
Lionel’s comments: “I have nothing left to add.”
Luke’s comments: “When you leave Fantasia speechless, you know you’ve made your mark.”
Josh King
Age: 24
Hometown: Charlotte, N.C.
Performance: “All By Myself” by Eric Carmen
Carrie’s comments: “Your ability to connect with the audience was truly beautiful.”
Lionel’s comments: “This class is exceptionally talented. You will never sing alone again.”
Luke’s comments: “Your growth throughout this journey has been remarkable.”
Breanna Nix
Age: 25
Hometown: Denton, Texas
Performance: “Tell Your Heart to Beat Again” by Danny Gokey
Carrie’s comments: “Kudos to Fantasia for helping everyone tap into their emotions tonight.”
Lionel’s comments: “That was a masterclass in performance! Every contestant raised the bar tonight.”
Luke’s comments: “That’s the reason you’re still in this competition!”
Source
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