Hollywood Week is officially in the rearview mirror, and American Idol Season 24 has its Top 30. Now, the competition moves to Hawaii for the high-pressure Ohana Week — a round designed to test not just vocal ability, but confidence, growth, and star power.
Before the singers take the stage in paradise, here’s a fresh look at the Top 10 contenders gaining the most momentum heading into the next phase of the competition.
1. Brooks Rosser
Brooks rises to the top thanks to a combination that’s hard to teach: humility and authenticity. His Hollywood Week performance was understated yet powerful, showcasing a uniquely textured voice that lingers long after the final note. What makes him especially compelling is his disbelief at being there — he performs like someone grateful for every second. That sincerity could resonate deeply with voters.
2. Julián Kalel
There was a moment during Hollywood Week when the crowd began cheering and Julián flashed a wide, emotional smile — and it said everything. His connection to the audience feels natural, not forced. Pair that with a strong, expressive voice, and you’ve got a serious contender.
3. Philmon Lee
Cool, calm, and vocally commanding. Philmon brings a soulful richness that instantly grabs attention. His relaxed presence on stage makes even difficult songs look effortless, and there’s something undeniably likable about him. He feels like the kind of artist people want to root for.
4. Kyndal Inskeep
Kyndal may have taken a moment to settle into her Hollywood Week performance, but once she found her footing, she soared. Her tone is strong and emotive, and her vibe feels authentic. With more comfort and confidence, she could easily climb even higher.
5. Braden Rumfelt
Braden has the full package appeal. Charisma? Check. Stage presence? Check. A standout voice? Absolutely. He’s the type of contestant who naturally attracts fans — and that matters more than ever as the competition tightens.
6. Jesse Findling
On American Idol, story matters — and Jesse’s journey from living with a stutter to delivering powerhouse vocals is unforgettable. Beyond the backstory, though, his control and emotional depth make him a legitimate threat in this competition. He proved during Hollywood Week that he’s not just inspiring — he’s ready.
7. Sheldon Riley
Sheldon possesses an incredible voice with theatrical flair. However, confidence remains the key question. Past setbacks seem to linger, and you can sense he sometimes hides behind styling or presentation. If he fully believes in himself, he could be unstoppable.
8. Bella Emry
Though her Hollywood Week edit was brief, Bella’s indie-style tone stands out. There’s an effortless coolness to her artistry that feels current and marketable. With more screen time and a breakout moment, she could surprise everyone.
9. Chris Tungseth
Previously ranked at the very top, Chris slips slightly after a Hollywood Week performance that didn’t quite hit as hard as expected. That said, his talent is undeniable, and his sportsmanship in the Golden Room showed strong character. If he elevates his next performance, he’ll regain serious momentum.
10. Chloe Lauren
Chloe has quietly grown into a dark horse. While confidence has been a recurring hurdle, her sing-off performance showed a noticeable shift. Under pressure, she delivered. If that newfound belief sticks, she could blossom at exactly the right time.
With Ohana Week ahead, everything changes. Hawaii will test vocal control, emotional storytelling, and resilience — and with America’s vote looming closer than ever, momentum matters.
Who has the edge going into the next round? And which underdog could shake up the rankings once again?
- The stage is set — and the power dynamic may be about to shift. 🌺🎤
