It was the beginning of the end of a wonderful era — the final season of American Idol. Through many generations of judges, winners, and contestants, the stakes are higher than ever for the show’s fifteenth season!
Returning judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez, and Harry Connick, Jr., along with host Ryan Seacrest have come together for one last time to find the next (and last) “American Idol.”
The farewell season kicked off with the usual auditions in the sunshine state, Florida. The first audition of the night was Michelle Marie from Daytona Beach and she absolutely killed it. As a life long fan of the show, Michelle showed America that the stakes are up this season with her performance of “Blue.” With three instant “Yes’,” Michelle is the first contestant who has received a golden ticket to Hollywood.
In addition to Michelle, here are our top highlights from tonight’s first night of auditions:
Lee John
Our first highlight of the night was 15 year old, Lee John. The South Carolina native shared his touching story with America and the reason he strives to sing. Coming from a large loving family with brothers and sisters, Lee John faced the hard loss of his older brother DJ. The multi talent not only sings, but also plays the piano and guitar! Lee won the judges over with his cool performance of “Icy Fire” by Ed Sheeran. With three yes’s from the judges, we can’t wait to see Lee in Hollywood!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFDiV_hvV0s
Sonica Vaid
Our highlight from Denver, Colorado was Sonica Vaid! A long way from her hometown in Martha’s Vineyard, MA, Sonika wowed the judges with what they said was a “perfect performance!” Sonica performed “Look At Me” by Carrie Underwood and the judges (along with the rest of Americas’) jaws dropped. Harry even made a bold prediction saying Sonica could possibly “win this thing!” After receiving three yes’ from the judges, Sonica instantly broke down into tears humbly thanking the judges. She’s certainly one to keep your eye on throughout the competition.
Harry Connick, Jr. Gets Handcuffed
Right after Sonika’s performance, the show took a turn. Harry Connick Jr. got cuffed! That’s right, contestant Reana Molenero, a police officer with the Hobbes Police Department in New Mexico did the deed – jokes only of course! We will be seeing more of Officer Molenero in Hollywood.
Jordan Sasser
From Raleigh, NC, America was introduced to Jordan Sasser! Jordan auditioned with his beautiful family including wife, Alex Sasser, and young daughter, who is the unofficial “Idol Mascot.” Alex did not make it through to Hollywood, but this time, however, Jordan amazed the judges with is heartfelt performance of Celine Dions’ “It’s All Coming Back To Me.” The performance was so touching we got chills! Can’t wait to see Jordan in Hollywood; he’s definitely another contestant to keep an eye on this season!
Shelby Z
From a small hometown in Sumiton, Alabama, Shelby Z certainly does not have a small voice. The country singer warmed up the judges with her performance of “Last Night” by Carrie Underwood. Harry Connick Jr. gave her a bit of a tease when she finished her audition by telling Shelby Z that he doesn’t like her…. he LOVES her!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mulvnLin22g
Kanye West
I think the audition pretty much speaks for itself. The one and only, Kanye West has decided to audition for American Idol!
Make sure to tune in TONIGHT at 8PM ET/PT on FOX for night two of auditions — we can’t wait to see what America has in store for us!
