Lionel Richie has proposed Kelly Clarkson and Taylor Swift as potential successors to Katy Perry on ‘American Idol’. Richie has previously worked with Clarkson on ‘The Voice’ and believes she would bring a sense of fun and camaraderie to the judging panel. He also suggested Swift, noting her popularity and industry experience. Perry recently announced her departure from the show after three seasons, leaving room for speculation about her replacement.
The untimely death of contemporary Christian singer Mandisa, a former ‘American Idol’ contestant found deceased in her Tennessee home last week, remains under investigation by local authorities. According to Franklin Police Department public information manager Max Winitz, there is currently no evidence suggesting foul play or criminal activity. The investigation into the 47-year-old singer’s passing is ongoing.
American Idol’s Ryan Seacrest and Luke Bryan have suggested that Meghan Trainor would be a suitable replacement for Katy Perry on the show following Perry’s departure. They praised Trainor’s humor, spontaneity, and talent, believing she would bring a fun and engaging element to the judging panel. Other names mentioned as potential replacements include Kelly Clarkson and Taylor Swift.
Following Katy Perry’s recent announcement of her departure from ‘American Idol,’ judges Luke Bryan and Ryan Seacrest have suggested singer Meghan Trainor as a suitable replacement. They praised Trainor’s engaging personality and judging experience on shows like ‘Australian Idol’ and ‘The Voice UK.’ Other potential candidates mentioned include former ‘Idol’ winner Kelly Clarkson and global superstar Taylor Swift, according to fellow judge Lionel Richie. Whoever replaces Perry is expected to possess a sense of humor, honesty, and a willingness to engage in light-hearted banter with the other judges.
The death of Grammy-winning musician Mandisa is currently under investigation by Tennessee’s Franklin Police Department. The 47-year-old singer, known for her successful career in contemporary Christian music, was found deceased at her home last week. While the cause of death remains unknown, authorities have stated that there are no indications of suspicious or criminal activity. Mandisa’s family has released a statement on social media, requesting prayers for themselves and her close friends. The music industry has expressed its condolences and paid tribute to Mandisa’s legacy of inspiration and encouragement.
The Franklin Police Department is investigating the death of former ‘American Idol’ contestant Mandisa Hundley, who was found in her Nashville home on April 18. Her cause of death remains unknown, and police have ruled out foul play.
Katy Perry’s departure from American Idol has sparked speculation about who will fill her seat on the judges’ panel. Her fellow judges, Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and host Ryan Seacrest, have shared their wish lists for potential candidates. Meghan Trainor, who appeared as an advisor on the show, has emerged as a strong contender, according to Luke Bryan. Ryan Seacrest also praised Trainor’s expertise and sense of humor. Lionel Richie, emphasizing the need for a sense of humor and a lack of ego, revealed his two preferred choices: Kelly Clarkson and Taylor Swift. Katy Perry, in a separate interview, expressed her admiration for country singer Jelly Roll as a potential judge. While no official replacement has been announced, Jordin Sparks has also expressed interest in joining the panel. The judges’ insights provide a glimpse into the qualities they value in a prospective judge for American Idol’s upcoming season.
Under the guidance of Meghan Trainor, the Top 12 contestants of ‘American Idol’ showcased their vocal prowess by performing chart-topping Billboard No. 1 songs. After a thrilling round of fan voting, the field has been narrowed down to the Top 10. The remaining contestants, who continue their journey towards stardom, are Jack Blocker, McKenna Faith Breinholt, Abi Carter, Julia Gagnon, Triston Harper, Kaibrienne, Kayko, Mia Matthews, Will Moseley, and Emmy Russell.
Emmy Russell, the granddaughter of country music legend Loretta Lynn, has faced both praise and criticism during her journey on ‘American Idol.’ Despite some negative social media comments, Russell has showcased her raw emotion and vocal prowess, consistently receiving positive feedback from the judges. Katy Perry praised her authenticity and vocal performance, while Luke Bryan acknowledged her growth and ability to embrace discomfort. Russell’s determination to overcome self-doubt and push herself has been evident, and she continues to receive support from fans who recognize her unique talent.
For over two decades, American Idol has been a platform for aspiring singers from across the United States to showcase their talent. This season is no different, with the names of the final 10 contestants being announced on Monday evening’s live broadcast on ABC. For over a decade now, Billboard has been first in line to sit down with each finalist and conduct their first in-depth interviews.
Emotions ran high on Sunday (April 19) as the top 14 performed songs by members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (the Rock Hall’s Class of 2024 was also revealed during the episode by Ryan Seacrest and Rock Hall member Lionel Richie). At the end of the two-hour episode, Jordan Anthony and Nya were eliminated from the competition.
On Monday night, the theme was Billboard No. 1 Hits, a subject first presented in season two and again in season four. The end of the episode saw the end of two more journeys, with contestants Roman Collins and Jayna Elise leaving the show.
In total, 10 contestants remain in the competition. Here’s a look at each of them, in alphabetical order:
**Jack Blocker**
* Age: 25
* Hometown: Dallas, Texas
* Musical Influences: John Prine, Willie Nelson, Townes Van Zandt, OutKast, Tyler the Creator, White Stripes, Green Day
**McKenna Faith Breinholt**
* Age: 25
* Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
* Musical Influences: Adele, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift
**Abi Car**
* Age: 19
* Hometown: Indio, California
* Musical Influences: Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, My Chemical Romance, Paramore
**Julia Gagnon**
* Age: 20
* Hometown: Guatemala City, Guatemala
* Musical Influences: Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Jennifer Hudson, Cynthia Erivo
**Triston Harper**
* Age: 15
* Hometown: McIntosh, Alabama
* Musical Influences: Johnny Cash, Charles Johnson
**Kaibrienne**
* Age: 20
* Hometown: Ogden, Utah
* Musical Influences: Katy Perry, Adele, Carrie Underwood
**Kaleb Lee**
* Age: 22
* Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
* Musical Influences: Bon Jovi, Journey, Whitesnake, Queen, Ed Sheeran
**Mia Matthews**
* Age: 18
* Hometown: Gadsden, Alabama
* Musical Influences: Dolly Parton, Kelsea Ballerini, Kacey Musgraves
**Will Moseley**
* Age: 23
* Hometown: Hazlehurst, Georgia
* Musical Influences: Bob Seger, Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, Blackberry Smoke
**Emmy Russell**
* Age: 34
* Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
* Musical Influences: Taylor Swift, Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus
