'American Idol' judges were stunned after contestant casually revealed who her grandma was
'American Idol' has seen countless hopefuls clinch the prized golden microphone trophy. The show's 22nd season was no exception, with plenty of young talents stunning the judges. One such contestant was Emmy Russell who touched the judges with her powerful original number, 'Skinny.' However, more than her performance, what surprised the judges was Russell's true identity.
As per Scoop Upworthy, Russell revealed that she was the granddaughter of country music icon, Loretta Lynn. Despite her legendary roots, she walked into the auditions just like any other 24-year-old chasing a dream. Dressed casually in a green hoodie and denim, she stood before the judges as they asked their usual introductory questions. In her introduction, she said, “Growing up, I sang music my entire life. I just love writing. I’m 24 years old. Songwriter, I love music. I don’t sing out as much anymore, but growing up, I sang on the road with…my grandma’s a country singer."
Judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan were caught completely off guard by the revelation. Their surprise was echoed on social media by netizens who flooded the comments section with praise. On YouTube, a person (@teresamay6981), said, “Your grandma was right next to you as you sang. This old lady knows you're going to go far on Idol. Your song gave me chills and made me cry. God bless you, my dear.” Another (@rickhardrollmitchell76) agreed, “I do love and respect the person she was and hope all the best for her grand-daughter, in her pursuit of her dreams.” Similarly, @conniesingleton3846 encouraged, “You got this, you're going to be awesome just like your grandmother. I hope to hear lots of songs from you and please keep it country. Loads of prayers and love.”
As requested by many, later, in one episode, Russell performed 'Coal Miner’s Daughter,' one of Lynn’s iconic songs. As she sang, Perry became visibly emotional, even shedding tears. Speaking of her performance, Perry said, “I didn’t choose this song because Loretta Lynn is your grandma. I chose this song because you are Emmy Russell and you can do anything now as Emmy Russell.”
The judges had given Russell three song choices, but the only one she knew was 'Coal Miner’s Daughter.' She worried that singing her grandmother’s famous song might lead to backlash, with people accusing her of getting special treatment. Ultimately, she decided to go through with it, as reported by the New York Post. Russell made it to the Top 5 before being eliminated. For those unversed, Russel wrote her first real song when she was about nine. Meanwhile, her grandmother Lynn, who passed away in 2022 at 90, left behind a big family, including 17 grandchildren and four step-grandchildren.