‘American Idol’ Recap: Top 6 Week Ends With A Shocking Result
ABC Reading Time: 4 minutes
Sunday night’s new American Idol featured the Top 6 performing two songs each. First, they commemorated the 50th anniversary of Woodstock with song choices inspired by the 1969 music festival. Then they were mentored by singer Lauren Daigle to perform “showstoppers.”
America’s vote put two artists in danger of elimination. However, tonight was the last opportunity for the judges to use their one save of the season and allow an eliminated artist to stay in the competition. Read on for the night’s performances, and to find out if the judges chose to use their save.
Madison VanDenburg
Madison performed “Piece of My Heart” by Janis Joplin, and even accompanied herself on an electric guitar. As Katy Perry pointed out, she even “flung” her ponytail. She added that she wants Madison to win the whole show. Lionel Richie said she’s “not just a pretty face,” adding that she has “star attitude.”
Laine Hardy
Laine performed “I Don’t Need No Doctor” by Joe Cocker, also accompanied by an electric guitar. Luke Bryan praised his song choices, in contrast to his experience last season. Lionel said that he’s created an “identity” for himself this season, while Katy encouraged him to “scare yourself.”
Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon
Jeremiah performed “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” which Joan Baez performed at Woodstock and which he says he grew up singing. He played piano for part of the performance, before standing up for the finale. Lionel said he’s “bringing the bling and swing,” praising his vocal range. Katy summed it up with one word: “Hallelujah!”
Laci Kaye Booth
Laci took on another song performed by Janis Joplin, “To Love Somebody” (originally by the Bee Gees). She showed off an impressive hairstyle and performed on guitar. Katy said she wanted to see her move around more on stage. Luke said the performance was “cool to watch.” Lionel encouraged her to play to the crowd more.
Alejandro Aranda
Alejandro performed Jefferson Airplane’s “White Rabbit” like only he could. Luke said he “embodied the spirit of Woodstock,” adding that it was something we haven’t seen from him before. Katy said it was a “unique, individual performance,” adding that it was one of his best vocally because he pushed himself.
Wade Cota
Wade wore a psychedelic shirt to sing “With a Little Help from My Friends,” originally by the Beatles and covered by Joe Cocker at Woodstock. Lionel told him he had “more movement than Joe Cocker” and said it was the perfect song choice. Katy called it the best performance of the night so far.
Madison VanDenburg
Madison was nervous to be mentored by Lauren Daigle for her performance of “I Surrender” by Celine Dion for the showstopper round. Katy said she’s “doing exactly what we’re asking for.” Lionel said her voice is “far beyond her age,” and praised her for singing the song in her own style.
Alejandro Aranda
Alejandro chose to sing an original song called “Poison” on acoustic guitar. Lauren praised his songwriting as “stunning.” Luke said he hopes America realizes how difficult it is to play guitar like he does. Lionel told him he will have a “career for a very long time.” Katy said it’s the best he’s ever sung on the show.
Laci Kaye Booth
Laci said she was nervous to perform “Open Arms” by Journey, because she’s “not a huge belter.” Lauren helped her through it during their mentoring session, and after the performance Lionel said she’s in her “comfort zone.” Luke said he’s “proud of how far you’ve come.”
Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon
Jeremiah sang “Somewhere” from West Side Story, with Lauren encouraging him to fill every note with emotion. Katy said it was clear that he took her advice to heart, and Lionel added that he “killed it.”
Wade Cota
Lauren said Wade has “insane” originality, and told him not to worry so much about failing. He sang a gravelly cover of “Through the Valley” by Shawn James. Luke called it a “Johnny Cash moment,” and Katy said his voice is “a thousand years old.” She added that he seems to finally believe in himself.
Laine Hardy
Laine bonded with fellow Louisiana native Lauren Daigle, who gave him some dancing tips. He performed “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry, and made Katy Perry swoon. “It was so good,” she said afterward, praising his moves.
Who Went Home?
After America’s vote, Laci and Jeremiah were in the bottom two, in danger of elimination. After some deliberation, the judges decided to use their save on Laci. That sadly means Jeremiah had to go home. The Top 5 going into next week’s show are Madison, Laine, Alejandro, Wade, and Laci.
