Meet Mattie Pruitt: A Young Star on American Idol Season 23
In the current season of American Idol, a remarkable talent has emerged in the form of 15-year-old Mattie Pruitt from Eagleville, Tennessee, located in Rutherford County. According to WGNS Radio, Mattie draws motivation from notable artists such as Chris Stapleton, Teddy Swims, and Jessie Murph.
Early Music Journey and Family Support
Mattie’s passion for music blossomed early in her life as she attended local institutions including Barfield Elementary, Rockvale Elementary, and Christiana Middle School. Her parents, Eleanora and Justin Pruitt, supported her musical ambitions from a young age. During the seventh episode of American Idol, Mattie revealed that she comes from a large blended family with 12 siblings.
“Watching her grow into the young woman she is today—so devoted to her craft, so passionate about her music—has been one of the greatest blessings God has given me,”said Mattie’s father Justin (via WGNS).
A Rising Social Media Star
Mattie has garnered a substantial following on various social media platforms, boasting over 29,000 Instagram followers on @mattiepruittofficial, 139,000 followers on TikTok, and 17,000 on Facebook. Her Facebook bio reads: “Country Soul Artist | 15 Years Old. Chasing my dreams, one song at a time. Music is my heart and soul.”
Representing Her Small Town
As the youngest contestant on American Idol this season, Mattie advanced to the Top 24 after captivating the judges in the April 6 episode. In an interview with WKRN-TV on March 18, she expressed her excitement about representing her small town on a national stage. Describing Eagleville as having “one stoplight,”she conveyed her pride in showcasing her community to a wider audience.
“It’s really great to, you know, represent my town, because it’s a very small town,”Mattie shared.
Overcoming Shyness and Finding Her Voice
Mattie’s musical beginnings were humble; she started singing the national anthem at local events, receiving positive feedback that built her confidence. Reflecting on her childhood, she noted that she was once very shy and would hide under tables to avoid singing in public. However, with encouragement and practice, she discovered music had become her true passion.
Her motivation to audition for American Idol was further amplified by a family connection—her mother had auditioned for the show while pregnant with Mattie, making the experience a poignant journey for both. Feeling nervous during her audition, she found solace in the thought that even Carrie Underwood faced similar challenges. Additionally, she received helpful advice from Lauren Alaina, who reminded her that judges are simply ordinary people who share in similar experiences.
Musical Inspirations and Future Aspirations
Mattie cites a diverse range of influences, including Chris Stapleton, Teddy Swims, Etta James, Paramore, and Whitney Houston, showcasing her appreciation for both classic and contemporary music. She expressed that her style is still evolving and has not yet been clearly defined.
“I love the old classics. I love the new people like Jessie Murph and yeah, just take away from lots of different styles of music. And I feel like, I guess my style hasn’t really had a name yet,”stated Mattie.
Through her experience on American Idol, Mattie aims to gain confidence and hone her communication skills, aspiring to become more comfortable with interviews and public appearances. She remains committed to staying true to herself while forging her unique identity within the music industry.
What’s Next for Mattie Pruitt?
Viewers can catch the next episode of American Idol, featuring Mattie, airing at 8 PM ET on April 7, 2025, on ABC. As she continues her journey, Mattie’s story resonates with many, embodying the dreams and aspirations of countless young artists.