By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Alabama had a standout night on American Idol Season 24, with five singers from the state earning golden tickets to Hollywood week during Monday’s two-hour episode. The achievement is especially impressive given Alabama’s long history on the show, which includes two winners, two runners-up, and multiple top contestants. Lionel Richie, a Tuskegee native, proudly declared, “Alabama is in the house.”
The first highlighted contestant was Kiera Howell, a 16-year-old high school student from Geneva. Known for her bubbly personality, Howell auditioned with “Don’t Tread on Me” by We the Kingdom. Judges praised her youthful energy and vocal versatility, with Carrie Underwood encouraging her to choose songs that match her fun, spunky style.
Howell said “This is, like, so unreal. I see this on TV, and now I’m holding (a golden ticket) on TV, which is kind of the craziest thing in the world.”
Next was Trew the Star (Trevon Williams), 24, from Montgomery. Sharing a moving story of hardship and loss, he performed Sam Cooke’s “Nothing Can Change This Love.” Richie hugged him, and Underwood commended his intentional, heartfelt delivery. Luke Bryan said he had “full-body chills.” Trew called the moment “hope.”
Trew said “I think (my family) is just really proud of me, and I know my mom is watching. This is hope.”
Rock singer Brett Carlisle, 28, from Birmingham and current frontman of Great White, auditioned with “House of Broken Love,” earning Richie’s praise as a potential “poster child” for rock this season.
Brett said “I’m ready to bring some rock ‘n’ roll to ‘American Idol,’ yeah!”
Kayla Finch, 25, a substitute teacher from York, sang “One Night Only” from Dreamgirls as a ballad. Judges offered constructive feedback but sent her through with three yes votes.
Kayla said “I’m going to Hollywood week! And Miss Carrie, every time I sing, I’m going to remember to squeeze that tushie and let it out. Best advice of my life.”
Finally, Kutter Bradley, 22, a fire protection inspector from Florence, accompanying himself on guitar. Impressed with his gritty voice while performing “Here Without You” by 3 Doors Down.
Additional Alabama hopefuls appeared in montages, and Hollywood week begins Feb. 23. American Idol airs Mondays at 7 p.m. CT on ABC.