American Idol 2018 Recap: Top 3 Perform Ahead of Finale Part 2
The American Idol 2-Night Finale Event featured the American Idol 2018 Top 3, Caleb Lee Hutchinson, Gabby Barrett, and Maddie Poppe, each performing three songs live. First up, each performed an original song, which they helped write along with several notable hit-makers, but with which they'd only had a few weeks to get to know. The second round of the night had each contestant revisit a song they performed earlier in the season and everyone got a great reminder of why these are the American Idol Top 3. Finally, the night wrapped up with a look at each contestant's hometown visits from the past week and each of them performing a song dedicated to their roots. Judges Katy Perry, Luke Brian, and Lionel Richie offered some final words of advice and encouragement before Monday's big finale and host Ryan Seacrest even had a few surprises up his sleeve. You can watch all of Episode 18: Performance Finals online on ABC.com or in the ABC app, but here are some highlights you won't want to miss.
Gabby Barrett Keeps Believin'
Young Gabby Barrett received a hero's welcome in her hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and she returned the favor with a rousing rendition of Journey's classic "Don't Stop Beliievin'" dedicated to the city and the people who got her to the Top 3.
RELATED: See all of the Top 3's Finale Performances!
Steve Perry's Standing Ovation
After Gabby finished her performance, everyone spotted a special someone giving a standing ovation. Legendary Journey lead singer Steve Perry was on-hand to see Gabby perform his band's song and he more than approved.
A Medley of Original Songs
Four American Idol contestants returned to perform a medley of original songs from earlier in the season including Harper Grace performing "Yard Sale," Jonny Brenns performing "Blue Jeans," Michelle Sussett performing "I'm a Dreamer," and Catie Turner performing "21st Century Machine."
RELATED: Audition for the Next Season of American Idol
Caleb Lee Cash Makes an Appearance
Caleb got right on in his country wheelhouse when he chose Johnny Cash's classic "Folsom Prison Blues" as his hometown dedication song, and he had the crowd on their feet.
Maddie Poppe Gets a Vote
Maddie Poppe closed the show with her hometown dedication of Fleetwood Mac's "Landslide." Her performance inspired Luke Bryan to say "that's why [he] signed on for this" and Katy Perry saying she's voting for Maddie!
But who are YOU voting for? Voting is open until 9am ET / 6am PT MONDAY morning, so get going to AmericanIdol.com/vote and watch the live finale MONDAY 9|8c on ABC!