When “American Idol” hopeful Isaiah Misailegalu said that competing in Hawaii was going to be “the best moment of my life,” he had no idea one of his family’s favorite artists would be watching him perform from backstage, too.
After singing “You Can Have It All” by Hawaiian reggae group Maoli on Sunday night’s episode, “Idol” host Ryan Seacrest surprised Misailegalu by bringing out Glenn Awong, lead singer of the band.
“I thought you were amazing, absolutely amazing,” Awong told Misailegalu. “I know you probably make your momma really proud.”
The tender moment took place at Aulani, the Hawaiian Disney resort and spa that will host both Sunday and Monday’s episodes of “American Idol.” This Hawaii-based round of the singing competition marks the first time this season that “Idol” viewers — not the judges — will determine who advances in the competition.
Awong’s arrival cemented the round as a particularly special occasion for Misailegalu and his family, who are Samoan.
“Hawaii was always one of my top places I want to visit,” said Misailegalu. “I definitely feel a connection being Samoan and in Hawaii, because we’re all Polynesian, we’re all one people.”
Misailegalu noted that he picked the Maoli song because it “really resonates with my family, and it’s my Mom’s favorite song.”
Before Misailegalu’s performance in front of judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan — and “Idol” viewers across the country — artist-in-residence Jelly Roll offered him some words of encouragement.
“You sing to the world like I just watched you sing to your mother, [and] I think you’re going to get the votes you’re looking for,” he said.
“Idol” viewers will decide if Misailegalu advances to this season’s Top 20 contestants. Text-based voting will remain open until 6 a.m. Eastern time on Monday, April 14.
