ODELL BUNTON JR. (13)
An excellent way to kick off Idol‘s second night in Hawaii, Odell commanded the stage and the audience with his stankified performance of “Uptown Funk,” oozing charisma and personality throughout.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “A–”
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American Idol Top 24 Performances Conclude: Which Contestants Earned Your Votes on Night 2?
By Andy Swift
TVLine
More stories by Andy
Courtesy of ABC (4)
ABC said “aloha” to the other half of American Idol‘s Top 24 on Monday, leaving another dozen singers’ fates in the hands of the viewers at home. (And if you didn’t catch the first 12 perform on Sunday, here’s a recap of everything you missed.)
With Jelly Roll on hand as the episode’s special mentor, some of the season’s early frontrunners took the stage at Disney’s Aulani Resort with show-stopping performances that pushed them beyond their comfort zones. But did they fight hard enough to remain in the competition?
Four contestants from the past two nights will be eliminated live on Sunday, April 14 (8 pm) as the season’s Top 20 is revealed in a three-hour broadcast. Idol also announced a trio of special performers taking the stage on Sunday: Lauren Spencer-Smith, who competed in Season 18, along with Teddy Swims and Paul Russell.
Voting for this second group of Top 24 performers opened Monday at 8 pm ET and will close on Tuesday at 6 am ET. You can cast your vote on the show’s official website (americanidol.com), on the American Idol app (available in the App Store), or you can text the number of your preferred contestant to “21523.” Every singer’s number is listed below.
Read on for a breakdown of Monday’s performances, complete with video of any you’d like to watch again. When you’re done, drop a comment with your own favorites. Which singers are you hoping will make the Top 20 on Sunday?
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Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC -
ELLEIGH MARIE (14)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC Sure, Elleigh brought plenty of attitude to this performance of Gnarls Barkley’s “F…orget You,” but rather than coming across naturally, her expressive moves felt a little forced. The vocals were solid, if not entirely consistent, but we can’t hate too hard on a performance that ends on a big note and a wink.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B–”
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MACKENZIE SOL (15)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC The cheekiest contestant of Season 22 wasn’t about to let a little cold keep him from jazzing up Nick Jonas’ “Jealous,” surprising us with a funky, fun take on what could have been a very cheesy number. Maybe it’s his TikToker energy, but we keep expecting basic performances from Mackenzie, yet he always manages to turn it out.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B+”
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JENNIFER JEFFRIES (16)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC It’s been said to death at this point, but we’ll say it once more for good measure — this teenager’s voice is far beyond her years, something she proved again on Monday with a devastating take on Lewis Capaldi’s “Bruises,” infusing some very real pain in her performance.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B+”
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EMMY RUSSELL (17)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC Still shaking off some major pre-show anxiety, Emmy pulled through to deliver a lovely, intimate performance of Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” that ultimately grew into something powerful, eliciting an audible “wow” from Katy Perry.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B”
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AJII (18)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC The judges were left with goosebumps after this commanding take on Tems’ “Higher,” courtesy of Ajii, one of the strongest vocalists with one of the most unique voices in the competition.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “A–”
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KENNEDY REID (19)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC First of all, Katy was absolutely correct when she told Kennedy that people are obsessed with her. We are “people,” and we are obsessed. That obsession only grew deeper this week when Kennedy performed Reba McEntire’s “Fancy” in her own version of the titular gown — and it did not let her down. She came to life in a big way on that stage tonight, and Jean Ann should be very proud.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B+”
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JACK BLOCKER (20)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC The man of a million faces worked his magic over Kacey Musgraves’ “Rainbow,” delivering a sweet lullaby of a performance that ended with a stunning showcase of the many tricks in his vocal arsenal.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B+”
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ROMAN COLLINS (21)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC Monday’s church moment came courtesy of Roman, who came out of the gate swinging with this celebratory, feel-good performance of Marvin Gaye’s “How Sweet It Is to Be Loved By You.”
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B+”
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KBLOCKS (22)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC First of all, justice for “Harleys in Hawaii.” KBlocks made Katy’s under-appreciated jam her own with this breezy performance — though we have to deduct points for that risky high note, which didn’t quite pay off.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B–”
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MIA MATTHEWS (23)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC Mia’s tribute to her late father via Holly Dunn’s “Daddy’s Hands” was easily the most beautiful moment of the night. She navigated every emotional curve of this heartbreaking country ditty with grace and strength, and we were very impressed.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B+”
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TRISTON HARPER (24)
Image Credit: Courtesy of ABC Unquestionably the purest soul in this competition, if not the world, this teen titan gave instant chills with those rumbling low notes on Blake Shelton’s “God’s Country.” He followed this with an instant flip into a high-energy performance that had everyone at Aulani swaying along. Authenticity remains Triston’s secret weapon.
TVLINE’S GRADE: “B+”
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Mackenzie and jack were my two favorites of the night!
Ditto, with Emmy R. in my third slot.
Lot’s of B+s but I agree with most. Usually the first night there are people that are terrible I don’t there were any and I think it is hard to loose 4 already. As they keep saying this is a good group looking forward to seeing them perform again. Loved Jellyroll.
I thought Kennedy was graded a bit high. I’d have given her a C. I thought it was cheesy. Also,it wasn’t just one note with KBlocks. It was the whole song. Out of tune, pitchy and really bad.
She isn’t good but already popular on TikTok so what’s the point of American idol so I totally agree
First, where’s the poll? Second, I love Jelly Roll!!! He genuinely cares, and he really brought out the best in quite a few singers.
Odell – Really nice guy, but I didn’t think this was his best performance. Still, good enough to make the cut.
Elliegh – Won’t make the cut
McKenzie – I appreciated how he made the song his own, but the vocals could be better
Jennifer – I feel like the Kodaline song would have been better, but I guess her nerves got to her
Emmy – Best performance by her so far!
Ajii – He is everything
Kennedy – Also, best performance by her! I just wish someone would tell her she doesn’t need all that makeup, because she’s a beautiful girl
Jack – Like a warm cup of cocoa that you thoroughly enjoy
Roman – Best of the night, B+ my a**!
KBBlocks – Not her best, but hopefully she’ll get another shot
Mia – Had me crying, beautiful
Tristan – Disappointed. I couldn’t hear him in the chorus, because the background singers were too loud. But he should be safe.
Totally agree with your assessment of Roman! He slayed!!
Tristan is off the charts . Just gives me goosebumps. McKenzie knocked it out of the park.What a great group of talent!!!!
Line by Line, I agree with the exception of Mia. I thought it was emotional but to the point of being cheesy. Kennedy looks like Tammy Faye Baker with all that makeup.
Many of the singers from last night’s show were the ones I missed from earlier auditions, but no one I was hearing for the first time really impressed me. Most of the ones tonight were those I had already seen perform at least once, except for Elleigh Marie and Kennedy Reid. Odell and Mia Matthews continue to be faves. I hope Odell can survive this cut, given there seem to be a few others in the soul/gospel lane this season and going first of the night may not work out well. The music Triston sings isn’t really my fave, but I can appreciate that he does it well and sounds very mature for his age.
Tristan is the winner
Roman, Ajii, Abi Carter are my favorites. Odell is capable of more memorable performances than tonight’s. Love Quintavious’ big voice, Jennifer’s unique voice, and Jack Blocker’s smooth storytelling voice. Country isn’t my thing, but Triston and Will Moseley should do well. I hope Mackenzie stays on for a while — he’s entertaining. Mia has been making excellent song choices, while discovering her strong country leanings. I didn’t think her vocals tonight were the best, but the song was so emotional that no one cared much. … I would also like to see Julia coached to use that amazing voice of hers effectively.
Love Tristan!! Love his heart, his voice, his faith in God! He is such a positive role model!
Tristan and Jack get my votes
Roman definitely puts church in every song. Love it. Keep going young man, we are cheering for you!!!!
Is there a way I can get a message directly to Tristan? During my career, I had the pleasure of spending a lot of time in McIntosh, AL. I got to know a lot of people and loved going there. I think he is awesome and would love to be able to connect with him. Thank you. Linda
Perhaps contacting him on social media would be a start?
I stand firm with Triston Harper as he is a young teenager putting not only an influence with his infectious voice and musical talents either his guitar but how he stands out in areas most fifteen year olds couldn’t!! Triston we love you from Winfield AL , you’re out “American Idol” no matter what! Great Job #24
This guy was amazing! When he came on the stage and started to saying I felt like I was in a real concert and I paid to see him and I would pay to see him. I like country music. I don’t listen to it a lot but I do love country music and this kid has got it! Would definitely pay to go to one of his concerts!
First of all I thought Jelly Roll was an excellent mentor. My favorites of the night were Ajii, Roman Collins and Mia Matthews (she had me in tears). The ones who totally blew me away was Kennedy Reid, Tristen Harper, Mackenzie Sol and Odell Burton Jr. who got me revved up with his performance!
Jelly Roll was an outstanding mentor! I liked Ajii, Roman Collins,Mia Matthews (she had me in tears). My top faves of the night were Kennedy Reid, Tristen Harper, Mackenzie Sol and Odell Bunton Jr. who made me want to get up and dance!
Where’s the poll, TVLine?!? I can’t fully process Idol each week until I’ve compared my faves with everyone else, lol!
Good question, Anna.; I was looking for the same thing.:(
For the most part, this particular top 24 is one of the strongest overall that I’ve seen. Regarding last night’s performances, my two favorites were Ajii and Jack. Jack has been getting better and better each week in my eyes.
Thought MACKENZIE sol was fantastic come on mackenzie sol the Boro are all supporting you .you show them what you’re made of. Good luck .xx
All I have to say is ROMAN COLLINS!!!
That young man is the winner of this years American Idol!!! He is the miracle voice of GOD… Thank you Roman, for your voice and talent.. May GOD continue to bless you with your wonderful gift..
Kennedy Reid made the MOST progress on the show since the initial Audirions.
And JEAN ANN PARKER is very Proud of her and all her hard work and Dedication for AMERICAN IDOL!
Emmy Russell needs to go through yes she was little nervous but she has some Big shoes to fill. I vote #17
Another voice saying ‘can we get that poll please’…
Tristan Harper, very mature voice for a teen
I love America Idol, but the tatted guy with the strawberry earring was nauseating. I was so disappointed in your choice of guest. Unreal!! So mad!!
Kennidy,,
Much better make-up!!! Stay natural!!! Your doing great!!!