Some of American Idol’s most talented contestants of the season are winning over the hearts of viewers with their musical talents and spiritual perspectives.
As the countdown continues for finale night on Monday, May 11, contestants Hannah Harper and Keyla Richardson are grateful to have had the opportunity to share their faith with America during the season.
“We both have grown up in church and had the opportunity to share our testimony, and it was nice to be able 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 chose “At the Cross” by Hillsong Worship, while Keyla, 29, opted to sing “Jireh” by Elevation Worship and Maverick City.
“I grew up in the church. I know so many songs, so it was kind of hard to pick, but I wanted to pick 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 a lot of times. When they said ‘songs of faith,’ that was right up my alley.”
During the season, judge Carrie Underwood has shown glimpses into her faith journey as well.
As part of “Songs of Faith Night,” the former American Idol winner delivered a powerful rendition of the classic hymn “How Great Thou Art.”
Underwood, 43, appears to be just one of the many people at American Idol who support contestants sharing their faith journey — if they choose to do so.
“I’m glad that we can be open about our faith,” Keyla told Us. “I’m glad that everybody is OK with it, and we’re OK with it. … I love God, and that’s who I love.”
Hannah added, “I think we’ve always 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 chose to sing “Mean.”
“I think I knew [which song I wanted] as soon as I heard that we were going to do a Swifty night,” Hannah revealed. “I think that she does a great job storytelling.”
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Keyla added, “I connected to ‘Lover.’ … I kind of just made it my 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 top 5. Maryland native Brooks Rosser and Mississippi music teacher Daniel Stallworth were sadly eliminated.
American Idol airs live on ABC Mondays at 8 p.m. ET.
