A few of American Idol’s most talented contestants of the season are winning over the hearts of viewers with their musical talents and spiritual perspectives.
Because the countdown continues for finale night on Monday, May 11, contestants Hannah Harper and Keyla Richardson are grateful to have had the chance to share their faith with America through the season.
“We each have grown up in church and had the chance to share our testimony, and it was nice to find a way to have it on this platform,” Hannah, 25, exclusively told Us Weekly on Monday, April 27, after making the Top 5. “It was an honor.”
Earlier this season, American Idol hosted “Songs of Faith Night,” where contestants could pick uplifting songs centered around themes of spirituality, hope and worship. Hannah selected “On the Cross” by Hillsong Worship, while Keyla, 29, opted to sing “Jireh” by Elevation Worship and Maverick City.
“I grew up within the church. I do know so many songs, so it was type of hard to select, but I wanted to select something everyone could relate to,” Keyla shared with Us. “I wanted everyone to worship with me. That’s my heart right there. That’s where I find myself in worship quite a lot of times. Once they said ‘songs of religion,’ that was right up my alley.”
Through the season, judge Carrie Underwood has shown glimpses into her faith journey as well.
As a part of “Songs of Faith Night,” the previous American Idol winner delivered a robust rendition of the classic hymn “How Great Thou Art.”
Underwood, 43, appears to be just one in every of the various people at American Idol who support contestants sharing their faith journey — in the event that they decide to accomplish that.
“I’m glad that we could be open about our faith,” Keyla told Us. “I’m glad that everyone is OK with it, and we’re OK with it. … I like God, and that’s who I like.”
Hannah added, “I believe we’ve all the time done that. There are more eyes watching now.”
During Monday’s episode, Hannah and Keyla impressed Underwood, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and guest judge Nikki Glaser during “Taylor Swift Night.”
Keyla performed a rendition of “Lover,” while Hannah selected to sing “Mean.”
“I believe I knew [which song I wanted] as soon as I heard that we were going to do a Swifty night,” Hannah revealed. “I believe that she does an excellent job storytelling.”
Keyla added, “I connected to ‘Lover.’ … I type of just made it my very own. I’m glad I learned it and picked that song.”
After the votes were counted Monday night, Keyla and Hannah joined Chris Tungseth, Braden Rumfelt and Jordan McCullough in the highest 5. Maryland native Brooks Rosser and Mississippi music teacher Daniel Stallworth were sadly eliminated.
American Idol airs live to tell the tale ABC Mondays at 8 p.m. ET.