With the Top 8 vying for a coveted spot in the Top 7, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. But these three fan favorites rose to the occasion — and then some — giving the audience and judges a performance filled with personality, passion, and pitch-perfect harmony.
A Trio That Struck Gold
Each artist brought their unique sound and energy to the stage, creating a musical moment that felt effortless and electric:
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Slater Nalley impressed with his soulful country delivery, bringing depth and grit to the performance.
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Thunderstorm Artis delivered his signature bluesy tone and smooth phrasing, elevating the group dynamic with ease.
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John Foster, fresh off a string of standout solo performances, added heart and warmth that connected powerfully with the audience.
Together, they didn’t just sing — they brought the song to life, showcasing their versatility and chemistry on stage.
Raising the Bar on Idol’s Top 8 Live Show
As American Idol Season 23 moves deeper into live competition, the intensity grows — and so does the demand for memorable performances. This trio’s rendition of Luke Bryan’s country anthem raised the bar, bringing a shot of adrenaline to a night already packed with high-stakes moments.
With judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie closely watching, the trio reminded everyone why they’ve become fan favorites: they’re not just great singers — they’re storytellers, entertainers, and artists with staying power.
Who Advanced to the Top 7? Live Results
As the live voting window closed and the results rolled in, Ryan Seacrest gathered the contestants center stage. After a suspenseful commercial break, the six artists moving forward to the Top 7 were revealed:
✅ Slater Nalley
✅ Thunderstorm Artis
✅ Gabby Samone
✅ Breanna Nix
✅ Jamal Roberts
✅ John Foster
That left Mattie Pruitt and Josh King in the bottom two. Judges Bryan and Richie, tied in the Judge’s Song Contest, attempted to get Carrie Underwood to break the tie. But Underwood declined — unwilling to be responsible for sending someone home.
The judges ultimately chose to save Mattie Pruitt, meaning Josh King was eliminated from the competition.
What’s Next: Mother’s Day Special at Disneyland
With the Top 7 officially locked in, the remaining contestants now prepare for one of the season’s most anticipated events: American Idol’s Mother’s Day special, live from Disneyland. Expect heartfelt dedications, powerful vocals, and another round of unforgettable performances as the race to the finale continues.
