American Idol fans have already me Haven Madison, who was one of three contestants vying for America’s vote to win the Platinum Ticket. During the American Music Awards, Idol posted a clip of Madison’s audition, alongside fellow competitor Matt Wilson and eventual winner of the ticket, Elijah McCormick.
Now, ahead of the Sunday Feb 19 premiere, American Idol airs the Clarksville, Tennessee native’s full audition.
Haven performs an original song
Sixteen year old Haven kicks off her audition with an original song, “Fifteen.” Her father, Jason Roy, is the lead singer of the Grammy nominated Christian contemporary music group, Building 429, and accompanies her on guitar. The song, an intelligent and heartfelt meditation on the impatience of youth, is arranged impactfully, slowly building to a crescendo. “What if I want it now, What if I’m not the same, What if it’s all a game.” It’s universal stuff.
Dad can’t hold back the tears
The judges listen to Haven’s performance, transfixed.
Dad can’t stop his tears at the song’s finish, as he hugs his emotional daughter. “Dad, there’s reason to cry,” says Lionel Richie, adding, “Young lady, your songwriting ability is incredible. You could be anything you want to be right now, it’s believable. I don’t see anything wrong now, except the world doesn’t know anything about you. They will. That was incredible. I’m so happy you came to American Idol.” Lionel wants to cut a record right now.
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Katy Perry weighs in: “The vocal decisions you made, they were just…so on another level. And they’re so you and authentic and coming from your heart. That song has a lot of opportunity to be something.”
“We’re starting this day off good!” says Luke Bryan. “When a 16 year old can really speak the 16 year old language all the other 16 year olds want to hear, it’s really special.” He continues, “Whatever y’all are doing…let dad just hit the record button.” Dad chimes in, “That’s it!”
The judges give Haven three enthusiastic yeses, and she’s on to the Hollywood Round.
American Idol season 21 premieres on ABC Sunday Feb. 19 at 8 pm ET/PT. It will also stream on HULU.
