“Idol” Frontrunner Canaan James Hill Eliminated After Carrie Underwood Cover

Canaan James Hill, a Top 10 contestant on “American Idol.” (Canaan James Hill / Facebook)

American Idol Celebrates “Ladies Night”

Ten talented artists began this week in the running to be named the next American Idol. Now in its 23rd season, the hit reality show has built a reputation for finding undiscovered talent and shaping aspiring singers into stars before a live audience’s eyes.

On May 4th, American Idol celebrated the “iconic women of music” when contestants chose chart-topping songs by female artists from different genres.

Country superstar Miranda Lambert joined the team this week, serving as a guest mentor for the top 10 contestants. Having once competed on a reality show herself, the “Kerosene” singer can relate to the competitors’ journeys on a personal level.

Miranda said that as a mentor, she aimed to be authentic and truthful.

Canaan James Hill Covers Carrie Underwood’s “Love Wins”

17-year-old Canaan James Hill has blown the judges away this season with vocal talent and passion far beyond his years. He even had the judges speculating that he may be the contestant to beat after a powerful performance of “Never Would Have Made It” during Hollywood Week.

This week, Hill chose to perform “Love Wins” by Idol judge Carrie Underwood. Performing a song in front of the original artist is risky, and the gospel singer admitted he was “nervous” for the performance.

“Love Wins” was released in 2018 on Underwood’s sixth studio album, Cry Pretty. Rolling Stone called the song “an open-armed anthem that calls for peace in a time of civil unrest”.

The song is a departure from Hill’s usual gospel comfort zone, and the uncharted territory appeared to affect his confidence on stage. He struggled with some of the song’s lyrics, and the nerves were visible on his face.

Watch Canaan James Hill’s performance of “Love Wins” on American Idol below. 

Canaan James Hill Eliminated From American Idol

Following Canaan James Hill’s performance, Luke Bryan encouraged him to continue pushing himself and remarked that his “runs are amazing.” Lionel Richie applauded him for making the song a “great storytelling moment.” Carrie Underwood called his ability to improvise when he forgot the words a “superpower.”

Sadly, not every Idol hopeful can advance to the next round, and tonight, two contestants reached the end of their journey. Canaan James Hill and Kolbi Jordan were sent home. These results are surprising, as both contestants were early standouts and received Platinum Tickets at their audition.

Tune into American Idol on Sunday and Monday evenings at 8/7c.