American Idol is renowned for its platform that nurtures upcoming music stars, and the judges themselves occasionally take center stage.
Approaching the Top 6, Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie engaged in the Judge’s Song Contest. This contest involved the judges anonymously selecting songs for the Top 8 contestants to perform. Perry, the reigning champion, emerged triumphant by having the most songs selected. She further solidified her victory as singers Kaibrienne, McKenna Faith Breinholt, Jack Blocker, and Emmy Russell all chose her diverse musical selections, which ranged from classics by Willie Nelson to contemporary pop hits.
Perry’s choice of song for Emmy Russell was particularly noteworthy, as she emphasized that the selection wasn’t based on Russell’s familial background, but rather on her own identity and potential. "I chose this song not because Loretta Lynn is your grandma," Perry explained. "I chose this song because you are Emmy Russell, and you can do anything now as Emmy Russell."
The episode also included the highly anticipated Judge's Save, awarded to the winner of the Judge’s Song Contest. Perry utilized this privilege to rescue one of the bottom two singers from elimination, ultimately selecting Breinholt. The 25-year-old esthetician impressed Perry with a heartfelt rendition of "Everywhere I Go" by Lissie.
"I chose that song because it's had a profound impact on me. I've spent countless nights in tears listening to it, just letting go," Perry shared. "It's incredibly powerful, and that's what your voice does. It moves people emotionally, opening their hearts to feel and heal."
Despite a touching performance of "Traitor" by Rodrigo, Kaibrienne fell short of securing a spot in the Top 6. With Breinholt's addition, the Top 6 expanded to the Top 7 for the 2024 season of American Idol, including Will Moseley, Jack Blocker, Abi Carter, Julia Gagnon, Triston Harper, Emmy Russell, and McKenna Faith Breinholt.