My Fav Five: "American Idol" Season 23 auditions

Season 23 of American Idol started with a ton of talent, as usual, pleasing the judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and for the first time, Carrie Underwood, who won the fourth season in 2005. The competition has officially come down to the top 10, meaning auditions are complete. Read along to hear about the top five of this year.

No. 1: Thunderstorm Artis - “Don’t Let me Let you Go” by Thunderstorm Artis

Thunderstorm Artis started the season off strong on the first episode, singing an original that dives into the complexities of relationships. This is the type of song that lodges itself into your head and stays on repeat all day. In some ways, it resembles music from Calum Scott in the way that the song is a soulful ballad with a lot of emotional power.

What makes Artis unique is the rasp in his voice and the volume levels that he switches between to emphasize the lyrics.

Sometimes when the artist plays an instrument while singing it can take away from the vocals, but Artis plays in a way that perfectly coincides with his voice. The preaching of his voice and the lyrics within the song made it an incredible performance and one that should not be missed.

No. 2: Canaan James Hill - “I Need Your Glory” by Earnest Pugh

This performance was so soothing and comforting as a woman of faith. Canaan James Hill came into his audition at the young age of 17 years old, but with the composure of an artist with many years of experience behind him.

Hill, who is an aspiring preacher, sang a song of worship, which is not necessarily as normalized on American Idol, but led to the show’s first faith-themed night during the competition section of the season.

It is so inspiring to see him using his voice for what he intends to be a greater purpose. Hill contains such a powerful voice and message, and showed intense runs of great range within his performance, earning him the last platinum ticket of the season, and judge Lionel Richie jumping out of his seat.

No. 3: Slater Nalley - “Traces of You” by Slater Nalley

If there is one audition that is going to stir the pot of emotions, it’s Slater Nalley’s original song “Traces of You.” Nalley’s teacher, Mrs. Davis, was also present at the audition to share about her son’s passing a few years ago, leading to the creation of this heart-touching song based on her poem of the event.

Listening to this song will lead to a rush of tears and endless emotions because it is just so raw and bittersweet. The entire story is so lovely, and Nalley’s performance is all the more captivating. The performance was very folk-like but could send shivers down the spines of any music listeners.

This was a very special audition that will be remembered by many who have suffered a personal loss of a loved one.

No. 4: Mikaela Bautista - “Saving All My Love for You” by Whitney Houston

One has to be very bold to walk into American Idol auditions and decide to sing a Whitney Houston song, but Mikaela Bautista did nothing but impress the audience. Her voice is truly just so amazing and enthralling that fans could listen to it all day. Her vocals are so soft and angelic yet so indulging and controlled that they make sure to take over the entire room.

Judge Carrie Underwood claimed she wanted to see more emotional connection, and Bautista showed her just that after earning her golden ticket by singing alongside her father in Italian.

This led to Underwood changing her vote to a yes, giving the young Filipino-American artist each judge’s approval.

No. 5: Kolbi Jordan - “Epiphany” by Chrisette Michele

Kolbi Jordan was one of the most iconic auditions of the year, leading to her earning the first platinum ticket of this season as well as a phone call with Patti LaBelle.

However, Jordan did not receive this ticket during her audition, but rather as a later surprise when the judges asked her to perform at the Titans game shortly after the initial audition. Jordan shows an insane amount of power and range when she sings, it will give you goosebumps.

Not only does she have such a vigorous voice, but also such a vibrant, entertaining personality. Showing so much control over her dynamics and the strength she has as an artist led to Lionel Richie and Labelle referring to Jordan as not just a singer, but a “sanger!”

To keep up with the artists and upcoming winners, watch American Idol on Sundays and Mondays at 8 p.m. ET or the next day on Hulu.

Jessica Goldstein is a second-year majoring in digital and print journalism. To contact her, email jng5536@psu.edu.