American Idol 2025 Recap – We’re live blogging the Top 14 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame performances. Top 12 REVEALED
American Idol season 23 continues as the Top 14 contestants perform songs by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members! Rock Hall icon James Taylor mentors the contestants. Plus, the Rock & Roll Hall of fame inductees will be revealed LIVE
American Idol will go LIVE COAST TO COAST for the first time this season. In other words, the show will air live like an awards show–simultaneously in all time zones. Fans can vote for their favorites in REAL TIME. But act fast. The Top 12 will be revealed at the end of the episode! Judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan are on the panel. Ryan Seacrest hosts.
HOW to VOTE
Viewers can cast their votes at idolvote.abc.com, the American Idol official phone app or via Text message (Text the contestant’s number to 21523). Voting begins at the BEGINNING of the broadcast. Fans can submit up to ten (10) votes for each contestant per voting method for a total of 30 votes for each contestant. Voting closes after the last commercial break. More at Voting Faq.
American Idol 2025: Full Season 23 Schedule
American Idol 2025 Top 14 Contestant Rankings
The show opens with Carrie Underwood performing “Alone” by Heart a showstopper from her American Idol days! It was the performance that showed Carrie could truly sing ANYTHING and pretty much sealed the deal on her win. Then Carrie comes out dressed as Axl Rose from Guns N Roses. Bandana and all.
Filo – With a LIttle Help from My Friends – The Beatles
James Taylor helps Filo refine his performance STOP SHOUTING FILO! James recalls how the Beatles discovered him, signing James to their Apple Records label.
Filo performs the shouty Joe Cocker version, as he works the stage and interacts with the audience. The singer shows a different side of his personality. Up until now, he’s performed R&B classics and big diva-type numbers. He could use more refinement still, but he did put his whole body into that, in the spirit of Cocker.
Lionel says, “That is a smackdown. Killer.” Carrie says, “You are giving more entertainment value.” Luke says, “I can’t say anything bad about that. That was amazing. Right song for the kind of singer you are. ” Text 17 to 21523
Mattie Pruitt – Piece of My Heart by Janis Joplin
Her step mother suggested the song to her. James instructs her to recite the lyrics. He notes that a woman usually sings the song, not a teenager.
The thing is, Rock Hall artists are all legends. It’s not a night where a singer can pick a contemporary song. Having said that, Mattie has the rasp and sturdy voice for the song, but her rendition lacks the desperation of the original. James may be on to something–the song is too big for a young woman.
Carrie calls it a great song choice, adding, “You gotta find your sass.” EXACTLY. The song lacked urgency. Luke suggests, “More digging in.” Lionel says, “If you just lean in, take that advice. Your delivery was wonderful.” Text 22 to 21523
John Foster – Jailhouse Rock by Elvis Presley
John does NOT want to be an Elvis impersonator. James gives John a few guitar tips.
The young singer gives the classic a big country twang. He wisely does NOT cheese it up, but allows himself to move around the stage and interact with the guitar player. He gives the vocal a few twists here and there and manages to make the song his own. No small task with this particular tune.
Luke is “very proud” of John, “It was very comfortable watching you.” Lionel says, “You were so comfortable and made it so believable.” Carrie says, “That was such a great song choice.” She compares him to Dwight Yoakam. John’s mother is a huge Elvis fans and named his sister Presley. Text 13 to 21523
Desmond Roberts – Jesus is Love by the Commodores
Desmond realizes singing a Lionel song is a risk, but he’s also excited for the prospect. His dad taught him the song years ago.
Desmond is back at the piano to deliver a heartfelt ode to his father. Hm. He’s a little weak in falsetto voice. He should probably avoid that part of his register. But the song comes alive when he grabs the mic to sing the chorus. He wails a few adlibs to finish the song. Not his best effort on the Idol stage, but still solid.
Lionel says, “You found some octaves I didn’t sing! You tried to take my song! You did so well.” Carrie says, “You knew when the energy needed to kick in.” Luke says, “Lionel didn’t sing it like that! You have a dynamic voice, but remember to edit.” He notes Desmond’s pitchy moments. Text 14 to 21523
Ryan reveals the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees:
OutKast, Cyndi Lauper, The White Stripes, Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Soundgarden.
Musical Influence Award went to Salt-N-Pepa and Warren Zevon. The Musical Excellence Award to Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins and Carol Kaye. Ahmet Ertegun Award to Lenny Waronker.
Jamal Roberts Shout Pts 1 & 2 by The Isley Brothers
The singer’s daughters will be in the audience. James calls Jamal a born singer and entertainer. He suggests that Jamal lead the audience in a call and response
Good Lord, Jamal is like the second coming of James Brown. He takes the stage with confidence. He’s the consummate singer AND entertainer. Really, the best combo of those two things remaining on the show. He never fails to bring it home. So fun.
Carrie says, “That was really great. Perfect song choice.” Luke calls the performance “smart” adding, “You just knock it out of the park every week.” Lionel says, “That was so professional. You are so good.” Ryan brings out Jamal’s young daughters. Aw. Luke jokes that Ryan looks “ready for that” meaning fatherhood. “Know anybody” Ryan quips in return. TEXT 12 to 21523
Amanda Barise – I Can’t Help It – Michael Jackson
Amanda’s father was in a band. He is her connection to music. The song is jazzy and she’ll be scatting in the song. James suggests she keep her eyes open, especially during the scats.
This is a good change of pace for Amanda. Singing Jazz separates her from the other R&B singers in the group. Jazz is her thing. I actually liked the way she changed up “Defying Gravity.” To please the crowd, hopefully she won’t get stuck in a Mariah/Whitney rut.
Luke says, “Great job. Went to another level. Crushed it.” Lionel says, “Michael couldn’t sing like that either!” Carrie calls it “Incredible.” Dad is in the audience. Text 24 to 21523
Canaan James Hill – Mary Don’t You Weep by Aretha Franklin
How can I church up a rock song? Canaan asked himself. There are all sorts of artists in the Rock Hall! James suggests Canaan make more eye contact. Find his family in the audience, he advises.
Canaan seems afraid to step out of his gospel box. At some point, when themes become more specific, he’ll have to do that. In the meantime, this Aretha song is the perfect choice for him. Yep. He’s taking us to church once again.
Lionel says, “Aretha didn’t sing like that either! It was unbelievable.” Carrie says, “vocals spot on. I think you cheated the system.” She wants him to do something unexpected eventually. He seems unsure. Luke agrees. CHÉ and Canaan have been teaching each other how to do each other’s accents. Cute. Text 16 to 21523
Josh King – The Longest Time by Billy Joel
His mom introduced Josh to James’ music. James suggests he sing the entire song in his chest voice. Josh is mixed on it. He’s afraid his voice will crack. Josh brings mom in to meet her fav!
Josh is a piano player like Billy. But he does not play it for this performance. Josh had a point in his mentor session. He’s singing in his chest voice. Mostly. He sounds strained up there at times. But at one point he does sing falsetto and he winks at the audience like “Yeah, I know I’m ignoring James advice here!”
Carrie says, “You know who you are. Great song choice.” Luke calls him charming and endearing.” The charm made up for the iffy moments, for sure. Lionel advises Josh to “push yourself.” Text 21 to 21523
Thunderstorm Artis – Fire and Rain by James Taylor
James suggest he keep a connection with the audience. Thunderstorm thanks James for being an inspiration. Impressed, James feels the singer did his own version of the tune.
Thunderstorm is backed by strings. The acoustic guitar returns. Does he sound extra hoarse this week? Maybe a little under the weather? Thunderstorm possesses the type of raspy character voice that can handle some extra stuff. He brings emotional phrasing to this powerful song. I’ll never forget a singing show contestant smiling her way through this song. OH BOY. Thunderstorm, on the other hand, understands the assignment.
Luke says, “It had hints of James Taylor, but a lot of you in it.” Lionel says, “You absolutely turned it into your song. Masterful.” Carrie congratulates Thunderstorm on holding his own with James. Text 23 to 21523
Gabby Samone – Saving All my Love for You by Whitney Houston
Gabby is star stuck. She loves James ability to tell a story. In turn, James is impressed with Gabby’s vocal. No notes from the man. “I’ll be asking you for advice,” he says.
I’m not crazy about this song choice. It’s the least interesting performance of hers so far in the competition. She doesn’t deviate much from Whitney’s version. Still, she doesn’t ruin a Whitney song, either. She certainly has the chops to deliver a difficult song.
Lionel says “America VOTE. That was phenomenal.” Carrie says “You guys are just crushing it tonight.” Luke calls Gabby a “giant star.” TEXT 6 to 21523
Breanna Nix – Open Arms by Journey
The song reminds Breanna of her mom. Breanna and James bond over how music saved them both. Like Breanna James has struggled with addiction and is in recovery. (I know for a fact that he’s helped a lot of people quietvoicemeforinstancequietvoice).
The Journey pick is a better secular song for Breanna to tackle compared to last week’s Queen cover. Her huge voice possesses the strength and agility to soar on the chorus. Still, she’s more comfortable singing songs for the Lord.
Carrie says, “I think that was a great song choice. Don’t make it too complicated.” She felt the song got away from her. When Luke asks the singer if she’s nervous, she replies “I’m shaking.” Lionel says, “Don’t overthink.” The judges are nitpicking. Breanna will lose confidence if they keep that up. Text 9 to 21523
Kolbi Jordan – You’re All I need to Get By by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
James suggests that Kolbi grab the mic off the stand during her performance. She admits that she tends to hide behind the microphone.
Kolbi gives the song the Aretha treatment. It’s like she’s singing at church. Her low notes are as strong as her big belting notes. Her phrasing and use of her head voice is gorgeous.
Luke says, “Everything was like ‘I’m here I arrived.’ It’s sensory overload!” Lionel says, “That was amazing. Everybody vote.” Carrie says, “I know I’m going to be mad at America. We have so much talent.” Proud Mom is in the audience. TEXT 3 to 21523
CHÉ Chesterman – It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World by James Brown
CHÉ wants to show the judges something he’s never done before James suggests that the singer “Do something physical” that emphasises the backbeat.
CHÉ knows this is his second wind, and he’s doing everything possible to make the most of it. He’s delivering one of his best performances yet. His phrasing is so good, it’s hard to tell when he gets in a breath! He may live another day!
Lionel says, “Everybody is going to the next level. You are out of your mind right now.” Carrie was hoping he would rock out, but she still calls the performance incredible. Luke feels the contestants are raising each other’s game. TEXT 1 to 21523
Slater Nalley – Your Song by Elton John
Slater is a huge James Taylor fan. He helps Slater with some of his phrasing. James reveals that “Sweet Baby James” is one of his favorite songs. Slater becomes a little misty as James sings a bit of the classic.
Slater accompanies himself on guitar. He twangs up a song that doesn’t really need it. I’m so attached to the original version of this song, a country version is hard to hear. I felt the same way about his rendition of “Over the Rainbow.” Having said that, while he’s a little pitchy sometimes, his raspy voice is made to tell emotional stories. Hopefully he sings more of his own songs soon.
Carrie says, “That was a great song choice.” She begs America to vote. Luke says, “That vibe of that song puts you in the right light. You got that old soul going on.” Lionel says, “You slayed it Slater.” Slater dedicates the performance to his mom. TEXT 11 to 21523
VOTE VOTE VOTE. The window CLOSES at the end of the commercial break!
Ryan will name the finalists who are safe one by one. TOM DIM THE LIGHTS. After 19 million votes…
American Idol 2025 Top 12
Canaan James Hill
Gabby Samone
Mattie Pruitt
Thunderstorm Artis
Slater Nalley
Breanna Nix
John Foster
Filo
Kolbi Jordan
Josh King
Jamal Roberts
CHE (!!!)
Eliminated
Amanda Barise
Desmond Roberts
AMERICA HATES JAZZ (IYKYK. Heh). Seriously. I loved Amanda’s jazzier side, but America obviously did not. She should have stuck to Whitney and Mariah, I guess! I would have prefered Desmond stay over CHÉ. But Desmond was not at his best tonight, while CHÉ understood PERFECTLY what he needed to do to stay in it. And he did it. The UK based singer survived without a homegrown base of voters to support him. He wants it, ya’ll.
