American Idol: Luke Bryan Calls Colin Stough “Raw, Real, Humble”

Colin Stough - American Idol 2023
(ABC/Eric McCandless) COLIN STOUGH

A new American Idol preview clip presents Colin Stough, an 18 year old country singer from Amory, Mississippi.

In his video package, Colin explains that he lives in a house with his mother, step father and two dogs. His father, a drug addict and alcoholic, has been absent from Colin’s life. The modest house his family lives in is only 30 feet away from his grandparents’ place. The property, Colin says, has been in the family for a long time.

The young man has endured a lot, and his love of horses has given him solace. “It’s a way to cope,” he explains. The singer is hoping that American Idol will change his life. “Ain’t really nothin’ come from around here,” he states. “I wanna change that.”

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In front of the judges, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan, Colin reveals that his mother signed him up for American Idol. For his audition, the HVAC technician performs “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd accompanying himself on guitar. He sings with a gravelly and soulful voice. He’s a little stiff and nervous, but displays raw talent.

After finishing his song, he’s relieved. “It’s nerve wracking right here!” Colin admits.

“Raw, real, humble…this is going to change your life”

“It’s what American Idol is about!” Luke gushes. “You’ve got the magic in you,” Katy adds. “You got star dust.” Luke suggests that Colin bring his mother in the room. She’s excited to meet Luke, who gives her a big hug. “This is a very important meeting between you and I!” he says. “We are so thankful you signed this human being up.”

According to mom, Colin has been playing guitar since his fifth birthday, “and now we have a house full of guitars!” Luke calls Colin, “raw, real, humble” and just the type of contestant American Idol is looking for. “This is going to change your life young man,” says Lionel.

Three yeses, and Colin Stough is on his way to the Hollywood Round.

American Idol season 21 premieres on ABC Sunday February 19 at 8 pm. Watch Colin’s full audition below.

About mj santilli 34829 Articles
Founder and editor of mjsbigblog.com, home of the awesomest fan community on the net. I love cheesy singing shows of all kinds, whether reality or scripted. I adore American Idol, but also love The Voice, Glee, X Factor and more!