On Sunday, April 27, 2025, American Idol turned up the heat with a electrifying episode dedicated to the legends of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With only 14 contestants left, the stage was set for a night of raw talent, bold performances, and heart-pounding eliminations. The power was in America’s hands as viewers voted to secure their favorites’ spots in the top 12. Judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie dished out their signature blend of praise and constructive critiques, while folk icon James Taylor mentored the hopefuls, sprinkling his wisdom like stardust.
By the end of the night, the votes were tallied, and host Ryan Seacrest delivered the gut-wrenching news: Amanda Barise and Desmond Roberts were sent packing. The remaining 12—Canaan James Hill, Gabby Samone, Mattie Pruitt, Thunderstorm Artis, Slater Nalley, Breanna Nix, John Foster, Filo, Kolbi Jordan, Josh King, Jamal Roberts, and Ché—earned their chance to shine again on Monday, April 28. Here’s how the night unfolded, with each artist bringing their A-game to the Idol stage.
Filo: A Beatles-Fueled Firestarter
Kicking off the night was platinum ticket holder Filo, who owned the stage with The Beatles’ “With a Little Help From My Friends.” His soulful swagger had the crowd roaring and the judges floored. “You just dropped the mic on the entire show!” Lionel Richie exclaimed, calling it a “smackdown.” Luke Bryan dubbed the song choice “perfect,” adding, “I’m out of complaints—that was unreal.” Carrie Underwood just grinned, nodding in awe as Filo set the bar sky-high.
Mattie Pruitt: Janis Joplin with a Side of Sweet
At just 17, Mattie Pruitt tackled Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart” with a vocal prowess that belied her age. Guided by James Taylor’s advice to connect deeply with the song, she delivered a performance dripping with grit and grace. “That was tailor-made for your voice,” Underwood said, loving Mattie’s bold look but urging her to unleash some “sass, sister!” Bryan called it one of her best vocals yet, adding, “Now build that stage presence to match.” The judges agreed: Mattie’s a star, but she’s got to crank up the attitude.
John Foster: Elvis, But Make It Country
Country crooner John Foster reimagined Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock” as a high-energy, boot-stomping spectacle. Determined to avoid an Elvis impersonation, he made the song his own, strutting across the stage like a man possessed. The judges leapt to their feet. “You owned that stage, John,” Bryan said. “It was you doing Elvis, not copying him.” Richie chimed in, “Your comfort level was off the charts—believable and brilliant.” Foster’s risk paid off big time.
Desmond Roberts: A Soulful Gamble on Lionel’s Classic
Desmond Roberts, saved by the judges last week, poured his heart into Lionel Richie’s “Jesus Is Love,” a song tied to his father’s legacy. The performance was a vocal tour de force, hitting notes even Richie didn’t know existed. “You didn’t just sing my song—you tried to steal it!” Richie laughed, praising Desmond’s bravery with the challenging track. “That was risky, and you nailed it.” Despite the judges’ love, America’s votes didn’t align, and Desmond’s journey ended here.
Jamal Roberts: Shouting His Way to Glory
With his daughters cheering in the crowd, Jamal Roberts tore into The Isley Brothers’ “Shout,” turning the stage into a joyous revival. Starting soft and building to a crescendo, he had the audience on their feet. “You took us to church and made it a party,” Underwood said, marveling at how he avoided karaoke vibes. Bryan called it a “smart” song choice, adding, “You’re a home-run hitter every week.” Jamal’s charisma and vocals were undeniable.
Amanda Barise: A Michael Jackson Moment That Shone
Amanda Barise, another judge-saved contestant, aimed to prove her worth with Michael Jackson’s “I Can’t Help It.” Her sultry delivery and slick stage moves won the judges over. “Pro-level everything—singing, moves, presence,” Bryan raved. Richie echoed, “You owned that stage. Amazing job.” Despite the judges’ enthusiasm, America’s votes didn’t save her, and Amanda’s Idol run came to a close.
Canaan James Hill: Aretha’s Spirit Reborn
Canaan James Hill brought Aretha Franklin’s “Mary Don’t You Weep” to life, earning a standing ovation. Following Taylor’s advice to lock eyes with the audience, he delivered a performance that was both soulful and commanding. “Aretha herself would’ve clapped for that,” Richie declared. Underwood praised his flawless vocals but pushed him to “rock out” next time. Canaan’s star power is undeniable, and he’s headed to the top 12.
Josh King: A Risky Head Voice Triumph
Josh King, another judge-saved artist, took a gamble with Billy Joel’s “The Longest Time,” leaning into his head voice for a doo-wop vibe. The risk paid off, charming the judges. “You know exactly who you are,” Underwood said, loving his fun energy. Bryan called him “endearing,” while Richie urged him to “push harder” moving forward. Josh’s unique style earned him a spot in the next round.
Thunderstorm Artis: Rewriting James Taylor
Thunderstorm Artis put his own spin on James Taylor’s “Fire and Rain,” creating a version so fresh even Taylor hadn’t heard it before. The result was haunting and heartfelt. “You made it yours while honoring the original,” Bryan said, admitting jealousy over Thunderstorm’s mentor session. Richie called it “masterful,” and the performance cemented Thunderstorm’s place in the top 12.
Gabby Samone: Whitney Houston, Handled with Care
Gabby Samone fearlessly tackled Whitney Houston’s “Saving All My Love for You,” delivering a performance that left the judges speechless. “America, pick up your phones and vote!” Richie pleaded. “That was phenomenal.” Bryan called it one of the best performances he’s seen on Idol, and Underwood simply said, “Incredible.” Gabby’s vocal precision and emotional depth secured her spot.
Breanna Nix: Journey with a Side of Nerves
Breanna Nix honored Journey with “Open Arms,” but her nerves showed through. The judges reassured her that her voice was stunning, but Underwood cautioned, “Don’t overcomplicate it—keep it simple to stay on point.” Bryan noted it was the first time he’d seen her rattled, adding, “Your voice is still beautiful.” Breanna’s talent carried her to the top 12, but she’ll need to shake off those jitters.
Kolbi Jordan: A Star Arrives
Kolbi Jordan lit up the stage with “You’re All I Need to Get By,” exuding confidence and charisma. James Taylor had raved about her voice, and she proved why. “You walked out like you owned the place,” Bryan said, dazzled by her aura. Richie called it “amazing” and begged viewers to vote. Kolbi’s star quality is shining brighter than ever as she heads to the next round.
Ché: A Man’s World, Redefined
Ché, saved by the judges last week, took on James Brown’s “It’s A Man’s Man’s Man’s World” and made it his own. Knowing the song had been done before, he added his unique flair. “You’re elevating your game to another level,” Richie said, blown away. Underwood wanted more “rock” energy but called it “incredible.” Ché’s bold performance earned him a top 12 spot.
Slater Nalley: Elton John’s Timeless Vibe
Closing the night was 18-year-old Slater Nalley, who poured his heart into Elton John’s “Your Song.” His emotional connection with James Taylor fueled a simple yet powerful performance. “You’re 18 and this cool? I’m jealous,” Bryan teased, praising his maturity. Underwood loved the song choice and his vulnerability. Slater’s poised delivery secured his place in the top 12.
The Road Ahead
With Amanda Barise and Desmond Roberts eliminated, the top 12 are ready to battle it out on Monday, April 28. Expect more live performances, high stakes, and jaw-dropping moments as American Idol inches closer to crowning its next superstar. Who’s your pick to win it all?
