‘American Idol 22’ episode 16 recap: Who was eliminated on ‘Adele Night’? [Live Blog]
Tonight on “American Idol,” mulitplatinum superstar Ciara serves as guest mentor for the Top 7, who perform dance songs from various artists and iconic hits from bestselling artist Adele. Meghan Trainor returns to perform, while America votes live for the Top 5.
Below, follow with our live blog for “American Idol 22” Episode 16 airing Sunday, May 5 (8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. ET).
SEE ‘American Idol’ deaths: Full list of singers we’ve lost
8:00 p.m. — Previously on “American Idol”! The Top 8 performed one of three songs secretly selected by Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie, who were each competing for most songs chosen. America voted live for the Top 6, and then Katy saved McKenna Faith Breinholt to round out the Top 7, eliminating Kaibrienne. Who will go home tonight?
8:08 p.m. — Jack Blocker is kicking things off with Little Richard‘s “Long Tall Sally.” He’s having a good time up there jamming on his guitar and his comfort level reads through the screen. He’s a dark horse to win this whole thing. Jack’s got the charisma! Luke says, “That is not the kid we knew a couple weeks ago,” and loved hearing the angst in his voice. Lionel calls him “the only person who makes Chuck Berry and Little Richard become the same person.” Katy can’t make eye contact with Jack and says, “Holy S-H!”
8:15 p.m. — Next up is Julia Gagnon with “Roam” by The B-52‘s. We’re definitely seeing a different side of Julia’s personality with this performance, even if her voice is taking a bit of a back seat. By the end she gets out a few high belts to remind everyone who the diva is this season. Lionel says, “That’s one way to show off an extra pair of lungs.” Katy loved the song choice and vocals, but would have liked Julia to attempt a few more dance moves. Luke thinks it’s “refreshing” to see Julia challenge her confidence level.
8:25 p.m. — It’s Abi Carter‘s turn and she’s taking on Fall Out Boy‘s “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark.” I like this pop/rock side of Abi we’ve seen the last two weeks. Katy looks completely gobsmacked. Katy asks, “Why were you saving that? You can do that?! I’m scared for my job.” Luke says the performance was “amazing” and he thought she just played piano. Lionel says Abi never broke character and showed confidence.
8:30 p.m. — McKenna Faith Breinholt is hoping to stay in the competition this week with Katy’s own “E.T.” Her look is fierce and it’s fun to see this side of her, but I wish it was a little more “dancey.” Luke says McKenna’s voice isn’t suited for this style, but he loves to watch her “dig in” and try new things. Lionel loved how McKenna made the song her own. Katy simply smiles and says, “Great job.”
8:42 p.m. — Will Moseley is shakin’ a leg to Lynyrd Skynyrd‘s “Gimme Three Steps.” This definitely sounds like a jam I’d like to hear in any bar, but Will isn’t exactly a dancer. I’m not sure it matters all that much. Lionel compliments him for making it “nasty” and says Will’s voice on anything is “so good.” Katy said Moseley can mosey — and he’s a rockstar. Luke says Will’s Apple watch is going to say “two steps today,” but he hasn’t hit a bad note all year.
8:48 p.m. — Emmy Russell hopes to push herself to another level with Walk the Moon‘s “Shut Up and Dance.” She’s sitting at the piano, which is a long way from dancing, but I’d say this is at least a nice mid-tempo from Emmy. Her voice is so light and recognizable. Katy asks why Emmy didn’t get up and walk around. Still, it was the best she’s sounded. Lionel says he couldn’t see her nerves and she’s stepping into the “superstar” lane.
9:00 p.m. — Triston Harper is closing out this first hour with Travis Tritt‘s “T-R-O-U-B-L-E.” He’s working the stage, shocking Katy with those gyrating hips. I love that he’s cutting a rug up there, but his voice is slightly drowned out by the band on this number. It’s still one of my favorite performances of the night. Luke tells him to “keep smilin’ and dancin’ and it’s all gonna be okay.” Lionel says he was gyrating before Katy and Luke were born — and this conversation gets a little uncomfortable. Katy loves watching Triston’s mom watch him and calls this performance “on another level.”
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