‘American Idol’ Season 16, Episode 8: Showcase Round and Final Judgment Recap

The singing showdown continues in “American Idol” as we head off to the Showcase Round and Final Judgment. The Idol hopefuls gave it their all to be part of the Top 24 spots for the next round of the competition.

With this being a crucial part of the show, the Idol hopeful all did their best to perform like it’s that last time they’ll on stage. Throughout the night, our “American Idol” hopefuls performed amazing solo pieces in front of a live audience and the judges, Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie.

Layla Spring

The judges and the viewers fell in love with Layla not just from her charm but most especially because of her sister Dyxie. Dyxie has always been present throughout Layla’s “American Idol” journey, but during her performance for the Showcase Round, Dyxie was not around. Dyxie’s absence, however, helped Layla to be more independent and confident as she tries to grow as an artist.

Layla sang Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary.” She didn’t only give a fantastic performance, but was also able to earn the first spot in the Top 24!

Michael J. Woodard

Michael’s Hollywood Week Solo Performance was probably the best yet! Now, Michael continues to slay onstage. During the showcase round, Michael was able to show his unique and powerful voice.

Michael performed “You Oughta Know” by Alanis Morissette. At first, the judges doubted him for choosing that song, but he quickly took that doubt away using his one of a kind performance. Lionel said that Michael is out of control. And since Michael seems to be unstoppable, he claimed the second spot right away.

Gabby Barrett

Although the judges advised Gabby not to sing a Carrie Underwood song during her audition, it seems that she couldn’t just let go of her idol. During Gabby’s “American Idol” showcase performance, she pushed through with a Carrie Underwood song entitled “Church Bells.”

Gabby admitted that there’s a risk in singing Carrie’s song, but at that point of the competition, she wanted to give everything. Gabby’s performance didn’t convince Katy, but Lionel and Luke believed in her, so she took the third spot.

Thaddeus Johnson

For the second time around, Thaddeus was rejected in “American Idol.” Although Thaddeus delivered an outstanding version of Jill Scott’s “Hate On Me,” the judges were not satisfied.

The judges might have made the biggest mistake in the show so far, after eliminating someone as talented as Thaddeus.

Michelle Sussett

Venezuelan bombshell, Michelle Sussett, was able to make it in the top 24. She sang “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars.

Catie Turner

Catie was very nervous and emotional before her performance. Luckily, Catie was able to handle the pressure well. She sang “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga.

The three judges loved Catie’s own spin on the song and the audience kept on smiling all throughout her performance.

Jurnee

Jurnee’s wife was able to get a military leave to witness her performance. Jurnee performed “Never Enough” by Loren Allred. Katy was surprised upon hearing Jurnee’s voice because according to her, she doesn’t sound like an 18-year old girl. Jurnee is now part of the top 24.

Shannon O’Hara

Shannon chose to sing one of Katy Perry’s songs, “Unconditionally.” Shannon clearly knows too well how to control her voice. This could be her asset as she continues to reach her dream in “American Idol.”

Noah Davis

Noah started strong during his audition, but he was not able to maintain everything, so he didn’t make it to the top 24. Noah also chose the wrong song choice and didn’t showcase the strength of his voice.

Noah performed Lady Gaga’s “You and I.” The judges have already told Noah to perform on the piano, but they were disappointed because Noah didn’t take their advice seriously. Halfway through the song, Noah left the piano and began working the stage. This is probably the reason why his “American Idol” journey ended.

Even though Noah’s journey concluded tonight, he promised to apply the advice he learned and to come back for the next season.

Ada Vox

Ada Vox delivered an emotional cover of the song “Creep.” The judges were surprised and amazed at his awesome performance. They might have thought that Ada will pull too many tricks, but he didn’t. He just stood onstage and gave a fierce performance.

Ada didn’t wear any makeup and went as Adam Sanders when he faced the Final Judgment because he wanted to show his real self and identity. With that, Ada grabbed a spot in the top 24.

Johnny Brenns

Johnny’s family showed up during his showcase performance, but the most surprising thing is that his dad was present too! Katy Perry even cried as his dad finally shows up to support him.

Johnny sang “Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith. The presence of his entire family inspired Johnny to give out his very best. Johnny’s dad, Leo, said that he is the winner in his eyes, which the judges thought so too.

Mara Justine

Mara is one of the favorites during the “American Idol” auditions, and she continues to be one as she grabs a spot in the top 24. Mara performed “Something’s Got A Hold On Me” by Etta James. Katy, however, said that there’s too much frosting on a beautiful cake already, so she needs to tone down a little bit.

Trevor Holmes

The love triangle between Katy Perry, Trevor Holmes, and Trevor’s girlfriend will not continue any further. Trevor was sent home after his rendition of Niall Horan’s “Slow Hands.”

Trevor has the looks, but his voice is probably not enough to compete with the other Idol hopefuls.

Who didn’t make it?

Like Trevor Holmes, Milo Sposato, Les Greene, Britney Holmes, and William Casanova’s journey in “American Idol” ended too (well for this season). Another set of performers got a “No” from the judges. They were Harper Grace, Carly Moffa, Samothias, Lee Vasi, and the idol baby Victoria MacQueen.

The final ‘American Idol’ Top 24 hopefuls

Amelia Hammer Harris, Kay Kay, and Brandon Diaz are also a part of the top 24. Dominique successfully grabbed a spot too. Goat farmer, Trevor McBane, stays in the show. Trevor is part of the top 24, but Luke advised him to be calm always and take some breaths since he has a serious looking presence whenever he’s performing on the stage.

Singer-songwriter, Maddie Poppe, is also part of the top 24. Maddie will show more of her writing and singing skills as the competition continues. Both Ron and Alyssa are going to the next round. They were added to the list of the top 24.

Caleb Lee Hutchinson became part of the top 24 after belting out Chris Stapleton’s “I Was Wrong.” Laine Hardy went home while Garrett Jacob stays. Cade Foehner, on the other hand, took one spot in the top 24. Between Maddie Zahn and Effie Passero, it was Effie who moved to the next round. Dennis Lorenzo and Marcio Donaldson took the two last spots.

“American Idol” continues next Sunday, April 8th, and Monday, April 9th, with the Semi-Final Rounds at 8/7c on ABC.