‘American Idol’ Season 16: Auditions Part 5 Recap [SPOILERS]

Before we head off to Hollywood, there are still a lot of auditionees who tried to catch up on the last part of the auditions in “American Idol.” They didn’t only do their best, but also showed their unique voices and singing prowess. Here’s a list of the latest batch of auditionees for “American Idol.”

Gabby Barrett

Gabby is a 17-year old girl from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She chose to sing “Good Girl” by Carrie Underwood because of how much she idolizes the “American Idol” Season 4 winner. Gabby wanted to pass the audition for her dad who has sacrificed a lot for her.

The judges, however, weren’t that impressed by Gabby. Luke said that Gabby’s voice doesn’t sound “country” even if she wanted to sound like one. Luckily, she got another chance after performing a Church Hymn. It looks like song choice is a critical consideration in any singing competition. After getting her ticket to Hollywood, Gabby and the judges pranked her dad over the results!
 

Caitlin Lucia

This cute auditionee, Caitlin Lucia, performed Katy Perry’s “I Kissed A Girl.” Caitlin’s low-key version served as her ticket to Hollywood. It’s not always easy to present a song which had been sung by one of the judges in front of you, but Caitlin nailed it!

Katy said that Caitlin sang as good as her—and might’ve sung much better than her too. Luke and Katy agreed that she has complete control over what she’s doing.

Drake Milligan

Drake is an actor, but his primary expertise is his Elvis Presley impersonation. Even though he loves Elvis, Drake chose to perform a country song. Drake gave his rendition of George Strait’s “You Look So Good In Love.”

It also came as a shock to the judges upon finding out that Drake didn’t sound like Elvis despite being an impersonator.

Mylon Shamble

A barbershop bartender from Bradenton Florida, Mylon wowed the judges with her Macy Gray version of Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me.” At first, the judges were concerned if Mylon could deliver the song well, but in the end, she amazed them all. Katy said that Mylon’s version of “Stand By Me” is the best version she has ever heard.

Lee Vasi

It seemed that Lee was quite nervous when she entered the audition room, and Lionel must have felt it, so he decided to sing with her. They sang one of Lee’s favorite songs, “Zoom.” But for her audition, Lee sang “Love Shoulda Brought You Home” by Toni Braxton.

Lee started strong but didn’t manage to maintain it until the very last lyrics of the song. Luckily, the judges believe that she could still improve her voice, so she goes to Hollywood!

Michael J. Woodard

Michael performed Ed Sheeran’s “Make It Rain.” Probably one of the most awkward aspiring singers who auditioned in “American Idol,” Michael’s awkwardness translated into something good due to his fantastic talent and tremendous voice.

Michael might have stumbled through the first lyrics of the song, but the judges liked him because Michael has a kind soul. Michael got three yeses so he’s going to Hollywood!
 

Brielle Rathburn

“If going through difficulty is what it takes to be a strong woman then I’m in for the ride,” this quote served as an inspiration for Brielle to do her best in her audition. And before Brielle started performing, she did a favor for Katy, by teaching Luke some “hip thrust” dance moves.

As for Brielle’s piece, she sang “Gravity” by Sara Bareilles. Successful in getting three “Yes” from the judges, Katy believes that Brielle has a smoky and raspy voice that still has power.

Carly Moffa

Carly’s mom, Betsy, is her best friend and biggest supporter. Sadly, her mother was diagnosed with sickness when she was in middle school. But that didn’t hinder Carly to continue pursuing her dreams. She sang an original song called “I’d Let The Lion Out” which she dedicated to her mom.

Samuel Swanson

Samuel, a 28-year old guy from Alabama and New Yorker, sang Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together.” Luke said that he couldn’t wait to see what will happen if his nervousness will fade away—because clearly, Samuel has a great voice. Katy agreed and advised Samuel to let go and do some breathing exercises. In the end, Samuel got the three yeses.

Jurnee

She might be 18, but Jurnee is married. Jurnee’s wife, Ashley, is a soldier who’s set to deploy with the Army soon. Jurnee performed “Rise” by Andra Day. Lionel was amazed by her performance, and now Jurnee is on her new journey in Hollywood!

Ada Vox

Ada once auditioned for the twelfth season of “American Idol” as Adam Sanders. He got depressed after getting negative feedback for being gay. Ada came to the point where he almost committed suicide. At that point, Ada thought that he was not worth a second try.

But amidst those unfortunate circumstances he had been through, Ada managed to rise as an improved and stronger person. Now, he’s back in American Idol as Ada Vox!
Ada appeared as a woman during his audition. He decided to sing “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals. And after his performance, Ada proved to himself that he is worth a second chance in life and music.
“American Idol” continues Monday, March 26th with the Hollywood Round at 8/7c on ABC.