Looking Back at ‘American Idol’ Season 21 Best Moments
ABC/Eric McCandless Reading Time: 3 minutes
From emotional auditions to impressive live show performances, American Idol season 21 is indeed a ride for both its cast and fans. As the show has just ended, it’s totally understandable that we’re having a little bit of a series hangover.
We listed some of the best moments that happened during season 21. Let’s take a look back at them.
The Best Moments Of American Idol Season 21
1. Iam Tongi Pays Tribute to His Father
Stepping on stage while carrying a sad but inspirational story, Iam Tongi mustered the courage to join the competition. Tongi lost his dad a few months prior to his appearance on Idol, but he brings his brave spirit every time he sings. As he belted out a song dedicated to his late father, tears had been unstoppable inside the audition room.
2. Tyson Venegas Earns First American Idol Season 21 Platinum Ticket
With his soulful rendition of Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind,” Tyson Venegas snatched the first-ever platinum ticket of the season. Judge Lionel Richie described his audition as “spot-on professional.” No wonder he’s given the privilege to stress-free amid the first round of Hollywood Week.
3. Kya Moneé Pays Tribute To Late Contestant Willie Spence
Singing “I’m here” by The Color Purple, Kya Monee dedicated her audition to the late Willie Spence. Monee met Spence during the Hollywood Week of season 19 where they performed Rihanna’s “Stay” together. Unfortunately, Spence suffered early demise at age 23, due to a car accident in October 22.
4. Haven Madison Honors Her Brother with Original Song
Back in the Hollywood Week, Haven Madison touched hearts when she sang an original titled “Still Need You.” The self-composed musical piece is dedicated to her brother Avery who battled depression and suicidal ideation. This song, according to her, was her last hope to convince Avery to stick around.
5. Idols Attend Stagecoach Festival
Before the Top 12 performed for America’s vote, judge Luke Bryan welcomed them to the 2023 edition of the annual Stagecoach country music festival. With Bryan being a headliner, he has clearly inspired the contestants and further ignited their musical aspirations.
6. Wé Ani Slays Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing”
After making it to the Top 8, We Ani celebrated this win by belting out “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston. Such powerful performance obtained numerous praises from its viewers, both live and online.
7. Colin Stough Sings Country Version of “Dancing on My Own”
Putting his own country twist to “Dancing on My Own” by Calum Scott, Colin Stough has proven his star factor. He belted out the said song to celebrate after he made it to the Top 12.
8. Nutsa Covers “Un-Break My Heart”
In joy of making it to the Top 20, Nutsa fascinated everyone with her rendition of Toni Braxton’s “Un-break My Heart.” The contestant has received a well-deserved standing ovation after the impressive performance.
