As the competition narrows down to the final three contestants on American Idol, the esteemed judges took a moment to reflect on the ongoing season in a revealing interview with PEOPLE. Among them, Luke Bryan expressed confidence in contestant Jamal Roberts, whom he believes has consistently been a standout performer throughout the season, surpassing fellow finalists John Foster and Breanne Nix.
“My gut has told me Jamal has… been a lead all year,”stated American Idol judge Luke Bryan.
Despite his endorsement of Jamal, Bryan reminded everyone that the ultimate decision lies in the hands of the American public and emphasized the importance of maintaining focus among the contestants. He commended Breanne and John for their impressive journeys in the competition, highlighting Breanne’s remarkable performances and John’s rising popularity.
In his analysis, Bryan cautioned that a momentary lapse in concentration could drastically alter the finale’s results. He noted that, in the competitive music industry, unwavering dedication is vital for sustained success.
Insights from Judges Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood on Music Career Pressures
Joining in the discussion, judge Lionel Richie shared his perspective on what ultimately defines an American Idol winner. He asserted that success is not solely about talent but about the connection contestants forge with their audience. In his view, popularity prevails in determining who emerges victorious, as it often hinges on how many fans resonate with the artists on a personal level.
Richie emphasized the pivotal role of fan support, stating that while performing well on the show is essential, creating original music is crucial for long-term career advancement. He acknowledged that current audience perceptions are shaping their connections with the remaining contestants.
“It’s an even playing field but it comes down to popularity. How many fans do they have that like them as people?”Lionel Richie asked.
Carrie Underwood, a winner of season four, offered her own insights drawn from her experiences. Reflecting on the shorter current season, she acknowledged the intense pressures faced by today’s contestants. Having navigated similar challenges, Underwood noted that the finale serves as a microcosm of the demands inherent in a music career.
She articulated that for the contestants, the competition acts as a rigorous training ground, requiring rapid adjustments and growth.
“I would imagine they feel more frenzied than I felt about the whole situation. It’s a totally different block out,”stated American Idol judge Carrie Underwood.
The highly anticipated finale promises to be an unforgettable event, featuring a lineup of guest performers, such as Brandon Lake, Goo Goo Dolls, and Good Charlotte. The judges, including Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie, will also grace the stage together, along with Jelly Roll, who has been mentoring the contestants.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Sunday, May 18, when the three-hour live finale will air nationwide at 8 PM ET. Please note, this week there will be no Monday episode. For those who can’t tune in live, the complete finale will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day.