A new era ofAmerican Idolhas officially begun. After months of celebratingCarrie Underwood’s homecoming, from contest to winner to judge, the newly cemented judge has officially endured her first audition of Season 23. JoiningLionel RichieandLuke Bryan, Underwood discussedhow things have changed on the show that made her20 years ago.
To kick off the season comes the audition bySonny Tennet. Hailing from South Shields, Tennet stunned the judges. That is after clarifying to Luke Bryan that “shrimp on the barbie” is not from his homeland of the UK. As Carrie Underwood’s first contestant, Tennet said, “It is so surreal.” He’s been a singer-songwriter, naming Lionel Richie as one of his influences. Accompanying himself on guitar,Tennet sings “Easy” by The Commodores in hopes of earning a golden ticketto Hollywood.
Sonny Tennet Gets ‘American Idol’ Aflutter
With R&B as a major influence, Tennet takes the song to a smooth, acoustic direction with his silky smooth vocals. His performance left newly appionted judege Carrie Underwood judges aflutter, with Richie even saying, “You made my song, your song.” For her first official critique behind the table, Underwood noted, “You look joyous when you were playing and singing and we felt that. Perfect song choice.” Bryan noted that Tennet sang the"timeless song in a timeless way.“With three yeses, Sonny Tennet is going to Hollywood!
American Idoldoesn’t officially kick off until Sunday, February 9th, butthe series shared a special preview following the Academy Awards.Season 23 marks the first major change of the series since moving to ABC. Long-time judgeKaty Perrydeparted the show at the end of Season 22. After months of speculation,Carrie Underwood officially joined the judging panel, becoming the first alum to become a permanent judge. Joining the judges will beJelly Rollas the season’s “artist in residence,” helping the American Idol hopefuls on their journey.The announcement came in a teaser videoalongside host Ryan Seacrest.
American Idolairs Sundays on ABC. All episodes are available to stream on Hulu.
American Idol
