When “American Idol” viewers last saw Slater Nalley, the 17-year-old singer was clutching a golden ticket, victorious after auditioning with an original song that honored his English teacher’s late son.
On Monday night’s episode of the competition, which marked the beginning of Hollywood week, Nalley was just as successful. The Georgia artist came prepared with another original tune: “Foolish Pride,” which he described as being about “self-reflection and realizing sometimes when you’re the problem.”
Onstage at Los Angeles’ Orpheum Theatre, Nalley entered the “Idol arena,” an intimidating elimination round where contestants are called to perform before judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan — plus their competition — without warning.
Equipped with his acoustic guitar, Nalley and his composition earned a strong reaction from his peers — and the judging panel.
“That was so good, I’m scared,” Underwood remarked.
“You’ve got a lot more stories to tell, and we’re glad you’re telling them to us,” Bryan said.
The performance ultimately secured Nalley a spot in the “showstoppers” round of Hollywood week, which will air next week.
