Ep 3. Auditions 3

Mississippi, we are coming for you! The third episode of America’s favorite singing competition show, American Idol, takes place in the beautiful state of Mississippi. In episode three, we meet some of Mississippi’s most talented singers who are vying for their chance to become the next American Idol.

The episode kicks off with co-hosts Ryan Seacrest and Luke Bryan chatting about the interesting and unique talent that Mississippi has to offer. The judges, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke, are ready to see what the Magnolia state has in store for them. The first contestant to audition is Hannah Everhart, a country singer from Canton, Mississippi. Hannah’s voice is soulful and her rendition of “Wayfaring Stranger” leaves the judges in awe.

Next up is Grace Kinstler, a college student from Illinois who is auditioning in Mississippi. Grace gives a stunning performance of “Elastic Heart” by Sia that leaves the judges speechless. Her range and control are impressive, and Katy Perry even tells her that her singing gave her chills.

The judges ask Jovin Webb, a Louisiana native, to sing another song after his first audition. Jovin chooses to sing “Parachute” by Chris Stapleton and it's evident why the judges wanted to hear more. Jovin’s gritty, bluesy voice is incredible and they all agree he is one of the most talented singers the show has seen so far.

Ronda Felton takes to the stage next and her audition is one of the most emotional of the night. Ronda has had a hard life and she sings “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin as a tribute to her mother who passed away two months prior. The judges are moved by her story and her performance, and Lionel even gives her a hug.

The audition room gets a little rowdy when Caleb Kennedy, a South Carolina native, auditions with “Nowhere” by Riley Green. Caleb’s deep voice and Southern charm have all of the judges dancing and enjoying the song. They all agree that he is a “big ol’ ball of energy” and his talent should definitely not be underestimated.

Another country singer, Alana, impresses the judges with her powerful vocals on “Yours” by Russell Dickerson. Luke Bryan tells her that her voice is “mean” and compares her to Miranda Lambert. Grace Lundy also wows the judges with her beautiful rendition of “If the World Was Ending” by JP Saxe.

The final audition of the night is from DJ Johnson, a self-proclaimed “church boy” from Florida. DJ sings “Proud Mary” by Tina Turner and his upbeat performance gets the judges’ attention. Lionel jokes that he was just waiting for DJ to take his jacket off and show off his “guns,” and they all agree that he has a lot of potential.

Overall, the Mississippi auditions do not disappoint. The judges are blown away by the talent and personality that the contestants bring to the stage. Viewers will have to tune in to see which contestants make it to Hollywood and eventually, who will become the next American Idol.