First Look at ‘American Idol’ Hopeful Dontrell Briggs Will Give You Chills
ABC/Eric McCandless Reading Time: 2 minutes
Another episode of American Idol is coming Sunday with even more amazing Idol hopefuls. Dontrell Briggs’s American Idol audition joins the ranking of contestants who are ready for their shot, but he had to fight for it during his audition.
Dontrell is bringing gospel to the Idol audition room. His story will also pull at the heart-strings of viewers. The 26-year-old singer from Maxton, NC first tells of his love for his late godmother. Dontrell’s godmother died from lung complications. He wore his emotions on his shoulders while showing the judges a quilt he has in her honor. Dontrell described her as his biggest supporter.
Before Dontrell began to sing you cannot help but already root for him to receive the Golden Ticket. The singer chose to sing Tasha Cobb’s “For Your Glory.” With an eager smile on his face it doesn’t take long for Dontrell’s voice to hit its peak and give you chills.
Richie is moved while Dontrell puts everything into his performance. The judge is shown wiping tears from his eyes. Although his performance is moving, you see Perry and Bryan’s hesitation.
Dontrell Fights For His Golden Ticket
The judges can clearly hear the talent that Dontrell has, but both Perry and Bryan cannot decide if his talent fits the standard of American Idol. Perry sees his sincerity but is concerned about the singer’s low vibrato. Although Richie showed his enthusiasm and voted yes for the singer, Perry voted no.
Bryan has the final vote and as a viewer you will be stressed with which way the country singer will vote. Dontrell showed that he came prepared and is quick to say that he can sing another song. In a Chess play move the singer decided to sing a rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey” and you can see Bryan’s face light up.
Bryan told Dontrell to “sing for his life” and he did. Dontrell changed up his tone and before he finished the chorus, Bryan gave him a yes, sending the singer to Hollywood. The singer does such a great job that the judges ask him to finish his performance. Even Perry looked as though she was ready to change her vote.
It is hard to tell how far Dontrell will make it during Hollywood Week, but he has left an impression on Richie. The legendary singer will surely fight to keep Dontrell in as long as he can.
