Noah Thompson’s performance hits ‘sweet spot’ with judges on ‘American Idol’ live debut

Now past the audition and Hollywood stages, Noah Thompson went back to his country roots during his first live performance on “American Idol.”

Performing from Hawaii during the top 24 round, the Louisa, Kentucky, native sang “Blue Side of the Mountain” by The SteelDrivers. It was a return to country for Thompson, who performed “Stay” by Rihanna the last time he was on the “American Idol” stage.

“Being in the top 24, man, it’s pushing me to go after it,” Thompson said in a pre-recorded interview during the episode.

Thompson showed off the grittiness and raspiness to his voice as he sang in front of the live audience.

Judge Katy Perry said Thompson gave “solid country efforts” during his performance, but said she missed some of the “Oh my God” moments.

“I think you were bringing some of the country to the island. Staying true to your roots, right?” Perry said.

He also received some words of encouragement and advice from Luke Bryan.

“We pulled you out of an environment that you didn’t see coming a 100 miles away,” Bryan said. “Keep going for it, keep taking our advice, keep following your heart and keep being the country boy that is standing right there.

“There is a sweet spot in your voice,” Bryan added, “that when you start really, really recognizing it, you might win the whole competition.”

For the first time, Thompson’s fate is in the hands of the TV audience. Voting is closed, and Thompson will find out on Sunday, April 17, if he made the top 20.

This story was originally published April 12, 2022 at 8:24 AM with the headline "Noah Thompson’s performance hits ‘sweet spot’ with judges on ‘American Idol’ live debut."