The Aulani, Disney Resort & Spa in Hawai’i came alive as American Idol 2026 kicked off its Top 20 performances, with fans finally getting their chance to vote for the first time this season. Gone is the Idol app — social media voting now joins text and online options, giving America the power to shape the race to the Top 14.
Tonight, 10 of the Top 20 hopefuls hit the stage, bringing unforgettable energy, emotional storytelling, and jaw-dropping vocal moments:
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Makiyah – “Bang Bang”: Keke Palmer called it a “crowd-pleaser,” praising her quick recovery and relentless energy.
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Jake Thistle – “The Power of Love”: Lionel Richie couldn’t help but notice his charm and intensity, saying, “That’s what we’re looking for.”
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Genevieve Heyward – “Pink Pony Club”: Carrie Underwood loved how Genevieve turned a pop anthem into a bold, fun performance.
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Daniel Stallworth – “All Night Long”: Lionel was blown away, saying Daniel truly made the song his own.
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Kyndal – “Call Your Mom”: Luke Bryan called her a “big-time artist,” captivated by every note and emotional cry in her voice.
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Kutter Bradley – “It’s Not Over”: Keke praised his stage presence and ability to fully embody the song.
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Jesse Findling – “You Found Me”: Carrie highlighted his human, relatable vulnerability, which made the soaring finish even more impressive.
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Hannah Harper – “Ain’t No Grave”: Lionel admired her storytelling, calling her performance part singing, part preaching — commanding attention from start to finish.
HANNAH HARPER
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Braden Rumfelt – “Love on the Brain”: Luke encouraged him to harness his swagger and stage confidence, noting how the audience felt every note.
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Brooks – “Dancing on My Own”: Keke gushed over his “cinematic, magical” voice, calling it the kind of performance that could transport listeners into a movie.
The evening also featured heartfelt moments beyond the competition. Host Ryan Seacrest shared a childhood flashback of Keke Palmer, and former Idol champ Iam Tongi returned to perform “Good For My Soul”, later duetting with Thunderstorm Artis on “Island Style”.
The first half of the Top 20 delivered unforgettable performances, and America now holds the power to determine who advances to the Top 14. Voting opens immediately via text, online, or social media, with fans allowed 10 votes per contestant per method.
Results will be revealed on March 30, after the remaining Top 20 contestants perform next week.
🎤 American Idol airs Mondays at 8 PM ET/PT on ABC and streams the next day on Hulu.
