‘American Idol’ Premiere: WATCH Claudia Conway’s Emotional Audition
ABC Reading Time: 5 minutes
American Idol Season 19 premiered on Sunday night, with plenty of incredible auditions for fans to enjoy. Although things look a little different this year, the judges were determined to give viewers something to enjoy.
“Lots of other things are canceled,” Katy Perry said. “Silver lining is that dreams are not canceled.” The premiere notably included an audition from TikTok star Claudia Conway. Did she make it to Hollywood? Check out all of the night’s performances below.
WATCH The ‘American Idol’ Premiere Auditions
Benson Boone
This 18-year-old only started singing a year ago. He also happens to have over a million followers on TikTok. For his audition, Benson performed “Punchline” by Aidan Martin while playing piano. The judges couldn’t believe that he hadn’t grown up singing. Luke Bryan called him “humble” and said he has a “true gift.” Katy Perry predicted he could win. Benson got three “yes” votes and a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.
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Alex Miller
This 17-year-old singer from Kentucky said music helped him get through his parents’ divorce. For his audition, he performed a song called “I’m Over You, So Get Over Me,” sharing that he wrote it about an ex-girlfriend. Lionel Richie loved Alex’s personality, while Luke said he wants him to perform at the Grand Ole Opry. He even sang a duet with Alex! The singer got a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.
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Jason Warrior
This 25-year-old talked about his experience on talent shows like The Four, where he lashed out at judge Meghan Trainor. Jason said he learned from his mistake and wants another chance. For his audition, Jason sang “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye. Lionel said it was “phenomenal,” and told him to put his past behind him. Katy Perry told him he’s on “the right show” now. Jason got a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.
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Ryan Romano
This 16-year-old said he has an “extravagant side” and added that he idolizes Elton John. For his audition, he played the keyboard and sang “Rocket Man.” Luke said he has “the showman aspect” but his voice isn’t there yet. In a crazy moment, Katy paid him $400 for his jacket to give to her dad. However, the judges voted “no” to sending Ryan through to Hollywood.
Anilee List
This 20-year-old talked about being diagnosed with Tourette syndrome, and shared how she related to past American Idol contestant James Durbin. She said her tics go away when she performs. For her audition, she sang “Blue” by Aaron Taylor. Katy called it “one of the most technically perfect vocals” they’ve ever heard on the show. The judges voted “yes” to sending Anilee to Hollywood.
Danica Steakley
This 17-year-old singer attended her audition with her dad Dan, who played guitar for her. Katy told Danica that she showed a “lack of experience,” adding that there was a “timidness” in her voice. Lionel complimented her higher range, but said her lower notes were an issue. Luke said she could grow into a great singer. Katy voted “yes,” but the others voted “no” to sending Danica through. Her dad was upset about it and stormed off.
DJ Johnson
This 18-year-old singer shared that her mom discouraged her from singing before leaving the family. DJ performed an original song called “Scars” on the piano. She started crying, prompting Lionel to comfort her and ask her dad to come in and hug her. The performance made Katy cry. Lionel said she could have a “hit record,” calling her “completely honest.” The judges voted “yes” to sending DJ through to Hollywood.
Nia Renée
This 17-year-old has been singing since she was 18 months old. For her audition, she performed “Chain of Fools” by Aretha Franklin. Katy couldn’t believe how young she was. The judges voted “yes” to sending Nia through to Hollywood.
Claudia Conway
This 16-year-old is the daughter of former Trump counselor Kellyanne Conway. She said she wants to “spread love,” adding that social media helped her to have her voice heard. Her dad George Conway teared up backstage talking about how much she loves music.
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For her audition, Claudia sang “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna. Katy said she “lost it” and asked her to try something else, encouraging her to channel her own experience into the song. Claudia then sang “When We Were Young” by Adele. The judges said her second song was better, with Lionel praising her ability to take coaching. Lionel and Katy both voted yes to sending Claudia through to Hollywood.
Mario Adrion
This singer appeared at his audition wearing a Speedo and sang an original song about himself. He also bounced his pecs for the judges. Katy challenged him to a catwalk battle, and Luke and Lionel joined in too. Lionel said Mario “could take over the world” if he had a good voice. Unsurprisingly, the judges voted “no” to sending him through.
Grace Kinstler
This 20-year-old shared that her father recently passed away unexpectedly, saying she was singing for him. For her audition, Grace performed “Midnight Train to Georgie” by Gladys Night & the Pips. The judges asked her to sing another song, so she performed “Natural Woman.” Her performance brought Luke Bryan to tears, as he said it’s the first time someone’s voice has made him cry on the show. Grace is going to Hollywood.
