Season 23 of American Idol is heating up as the competition moves to Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii, where the 24 remaining contestants will showcase their talent in hopes of securing a spot in the live shows. The episode aired on Sunday, April 13, 2025, featuring remarkable performances that left both the judges and audience in awe.
Among the standout performances was Atlanta high schooler Slater Nalley, who delivered a breathtaking rendition of "Over the Rainbow." His unique vocal style caught the attention of the judges, with Jelly Roll, who was present in the audience, expressing his admiration. "I got goosebumps," Jelly Roll remarked, highlighting the emotional impact of Nalley’s performance. Lionel Richie also praised the young artist, noting, "I don’t remember you having all of that growl," while Carrie Underwood predicted a bright future for Nalley, asserting, "I truly, honestly think that you have the talent and the voice that in, like, 10 years, it will be like, ‘This is one of the finest voices that we’ve ever had in country music.'" Luke Bryan echoed similar sentiments, telling Nalley, "You’re going to get to do music for a long, long time, and it’s really fun.
Another contestant, Isaiah Misailegalu, known as “Samoan Silk,” captivated the judges with his velvety performance of Maoli’s "You Can Have It All." Lionel Richie praised Misailegalu, saying, "What you have in your voice is magic." The Hawaiian singer-songwriter Glenn Awong, who wrote the song, surprised Misailegalu by coming on stage to commend him personally, stating, "I thought you were amazing. Absolutely amazing. Keep doing your thing." The positive feedback from both the judges and fellow artists underscores the high stakes and intense competition of this season.
This season of American Idol has seen a significant shift, with Jelly Roll stepping in as the first-ever artist in residence. His role has been pivotal in guiding contestants through their performances, providing mentorship that many have found invaluable. The competition has also seen the return of familiar faces among the judges, with Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie continuing to evaluate talent and provide constructive feedback.
As the show progresses, the contestants have been reflecting on their journeys. Victor Solomon, a 26-year-old from Peoria, Illinois, who previously placed fifth on The Voice, is currently in the top 24 on American Idol. Solomon performed Lionel Richie’s iconic hit "Hello" during his audition, earning a standing ovation from the legendary artist himself. "I think internally, I really just started crying," Solomon shared about the experience. His journey has been marked by significant growth and self-discovery, as he navigates the challenges of maintaining a music career after the initial spotlight fades.
Solomon has also emphasized the importance of faith throughout his time on the show, often sharing moments of worship with fellow contestants. "To spread the love of Jesus Christ, and also to draw people closer to Him, that’s what it’s all about," he remarked. This spiritual connection among contestants has fostered a supportive environment, even as the competition intensifies.
In addition to the emotional performances, viewers are also curious about the logistics of being a contestant on American Idol. While contestants do not receive payment until they reach the live rounds, they benefit from several perks during the competition. Margie Mays, a former contestant, explained on TikTok that while they do not get paid per episode, the show covers travel expenses, accommodations, and provides a per diem for meals, especially during special events like the performances in Hawaii.
For those who advance to the live shows, the compensation structure becomes more favorable. Contestants can earn between $910 for a half-hour episode to $1,571 for a two-hour show, depending on the length of the episode. Additionally, they receive a $400 weekly wardrobe allowance, allowing them to maintain their appearance throughout the competition.
The stakes are high as the top 24 contestants prepare for the next round, where they will be whittled down to the top 14. With the audience’s votes playing a crucial role in determining who stays and who goes, contestants like Solomon are feeling the pressure. "It’s nerve-wracking," he admitted, acknowledging the uncertainty of the outcome.
As the competition unfolds, fans are eager to see who will rise to the top and ultimately be crowned the 2025 American Idol champion. With each performance, contestants are not only vying for the title but also for a chance to launch their music careers in a highly competitive industry. The journey is filled with challenges, triumphs, and the shared passion for music that unites them all.
With the combination of emotional performances, mentorship from industry veterans, and the camaraderie among contestants, this season of American Idol promises to be one for the books. As viewers tune in each week, they are reminded of the power of music and the dreams that drive these talented individuals to pursue their passions on such a grand stage.
