"American Idol" 2021: More Iconic Duets on Top 24's Second Night
After a night of amazing solo performances and instant classic duets, the other half of "American Idol" 2021's Top 24 takes centerstage for the first time! Judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie and host Ryan Seacrest are joined by a new set of legendary guest mentors/duet partners -- Brandon Boyd of Incubus, PJ Morton, Josh Groban, Jason Aldean, Jewel, and Idol alum Tori Kelly.
Let's run down the pairings and see what the judges said!
Contestant: Jason Warrior
Solo Song: "Call Out My Name" by The Weeknd
Duet Partner/Mentor: PJ Morton
Duet Song: "How Deep Is Your Love" by The Bee Gees
Judges' Comments: Katy said it was the best solo and duet combo so far but wants him to push his style and outfit choices so they match his showmanship. Luke loves how he "leaves it out there every time." Lionel said it was "old school, new school…you school."
Contestant: Madison Watkins
Solo Song: "Holy" by Justin Bieber
Duet Partner/Mentor: Tori Kelly
Duet Song: "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing" by Stevie Wonder
Judges' Comments: Luke calls her a "natural entertainer" and said that she showcased her voice at a new level. Lionel compliments Madison on being engaged and reacting to what Tori was doing. Katy said it was the "vocal Olympics" and implores her to keep creating moments that make her stand out.
Contestant: Beane
Solo Song: "Don't Start Now" by Dua Lipa
Duet Partner/Mentor: Josh Groban
Duet Song: "Angels" by Robbie Williams
Judges' Comments: Lionel said he was singing to grab their attention and the noticed. Katy thinks he has incredible artistic vision. Luke believes he is growing with every phase of the competition and compliments him on rising to meet Josh's level on their duet.
Contestant: Hannah Everhart
Solo Song: "I Was Wrong" by Chris Stapleton
Duet Partner/Mentor: Jason Aldean
Duet Song: "She's Country" by Jason Aldean
Judges' Comments: Katy said there were some moments that didn't land but appreciates the risk, however she looked like a real Country star with Jason – she should harness that. Luke says that once her talent catches up with her charisma, it'll be fun to watch. Lionel tells her to believe in herself because "she's got the good."
Idol alumTori Kelly performs with Madison Watkins
Contestant: Mary Jo Young
Solo Song: "Castle on the Hill" by Ed Sheeran
Duet Partner/Mentor: Jewel
Duet Song: "Foolish Games" by Jewel
Judges' Comments: Luke is so proud of her putting together a star-quality performance. Lionel commends her on staying "fresh" and "young" and not pushing or being pushed to be older. Katy says she's becoming an artist before their eyes.
Contestant: Chayce Beckham
Solo Song: "Afterglow" by Ed Sheeran
Duet Partner/Mentor: Brandon Boyd
Duet Song: "Drive" by Incubus
Judges' Comments: Lionel tells him his voice is "identifiable" but reminds him to play to the audience. Katy says he reminds her of Alejandro in terms of authenticity and musicianship. Luke says the duet revealed a new level and, if he can keep it up, the sky's the limit.
Contestant: Colin Jamieson
Solo Song: "Locked Out of Heaven" by Bruno Mars
Duet Partner/Mentor: Tori Kelly
Duet Song: "Hollow" by Tori Kelly
Judges' Comments: Katy says he looked like a pro on stage. Luke calls his energy "infectious.' Lionel thinks he knows the secret which is "treat the stage like you're in your living room and we happened to stop by."
Contestant: Liahona
Solo Song: "Just Friends" by Audrey Mika
Duet Partner/Mentor: PJ Morton
Duet Song: "Say So" by PJ Morton feat. JoJo
Judges' Comments: Luke called her voice "radio ready" and loved the duet. Lionel commends how far she's come and praises her phrasing and note placement. Katy likes how she is "leaning in" to the spotlight.
Contestant: Ava August
Solo Song: "drivers license" by Olivia Rodrigo
Duet Partner/Mentor: Josh Groban
Duet Song: "Both Sides Now" by Joni Mitchell
Judges' Comments: Lionel says she is singing far beyond her age. Katy says she is an old soul who has come back to "ace life" and "become queen." Luke thought it was like watching Judy Garland on stage and thinks her solo song selection was great.
PJ Morton sings with Liahona
Contestant: Caleb Kennedy
Solo Song: "Midnight Rider" by The Allman Brothers Band
Duet Partner/Mentor: Jason Aldean
Duet Song: "Fly Over States" by Jason Aldean
Judges' Comments: Katy believes he will be popular across the Country board because of his authenticity. Luke liked that the songs went a bit out of his comfort zone. Lionel says Caleb has a lot of promise in his career and can't wait to see where it goes.
Contestant: Hunter Metts
Solo Song: "Chandelier" by Sia
Duet Partner/Mentor: Jewel
Duet Song: "Who Will Save Your Soul" by Jewel
Judges' Comments: Luke says that Hunter's voice is so distinct that it doesn't matter how well he does, Luke still thinks of all the possibilities. Lionel calls him a "stylist" and says that he can't mess this up, so to lean forward and feel confident. Katy says she could feel his nerves and tells him not to judge himself against the other singers.
Contestant: Casey Bishop
Solo Song: "Decode" by Paramore
Duet Partner/Mentor: Brandon Boyd
Duet Song: "Wish You Were Here" by Incubus
Judges' Comments: Lionel congratulated her on owning the stage. Katy wants her to put more energy into her performance to match the grit and "teeth" in her vocal. Luke seconds Katy's urging saying that Casey isn't realizing her potential yet – she's 16 and wants to bring Rock back so act accordingly.
Who impressed America enough to make it into the Top 16? Find out when "American Idol" returns SUNDAY and MONDAY at 8|7c on ABC!
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