There are no guarantees on “American Idol” — but when a performer leaves both the judges and Fantasia speechless, it’s probably a sign that they’ll advance to the next round.
That’s exactly what happened for “Idol” contender Gabby Samone, whose rendition of the “A Song For You” by Donny Hathaway had judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan — plus guest mentor Fantasia — at a loss for words during Monday night’s episode.
After a rapid elimination Sunday night that saw the departure of Amanda Barise and Desmond Roberts, the remaining 12 contenders competed for their spot in the Top 10 during Monday night’s round. For the evening’s theme of “iconic ‘Idol’ moments,” Samone recalled former contestant Elliott Yamin’s performance of “A Song For You” from 2006.
Before the performance, Samone rehearsed with guest mentor and Season 3 “Idol” winner Fantasia, who has been a source of inspiration for Samone.
“Seeing a Black woman win ‘American Idol’ is important,” she said. “I saw myself on the screen.”
“When I sing this song, I am thinking about that little girl that was so insecure and so afraid to be herself,” Samone added.
When it was time for Fantasia to share feedback, she casually remarked “I don’t have anything to say.” After Samone’s official performance Monday evening, the judging panel was just as stunned. Underwood had little to say beyond calling Samone’s singing “absolute perfection.”
“When you render Fantasia speechless, you have done something,” said Bryan.
“I think Fantasia said it best at the end — I have nothing more to say,” added Richie.
Much like the prior evening’s episode, voting was open only through the duration of Monday’s show. Ryan Seacrest revealed the results at the end of the episode, sending home Filo and Ché Chesterman based on roughly 22 million votes.
The Top 10 contestants, including Samone, will face off again this Sunday night during a “Ladies’ Night”-themed episode.
