There’s a unique kind of alchemy that happens when a long-running franchise like American Idol hits its stride more than two decades in. Season 23 isn’t just another chapter in the Idol saga — it’s a full-on crescendo of storytelling, soul, and sheer vocal power. With the top 10 finalists now locked in after a heart-pounding Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-themed episode, we're left with a roster of singers who don't just want to win — they want to mean something. Think Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame level of ensemble energy, but with microphones instead of superpowers.
The Top 10 Are More Than Contenders — They’re a Cultural Soundtrack in the Making
Guest mentor James Taylor — yes, the *legendary* James Taylor — guided the finalists through one of the most nostalgic and emotionally charged episodes in recent memory. Watching the contestants channel rock royalty while adding their own flavor was like seeing different heroes don their suits one last time before the final battle. And just like that, the Top 10 were revealed, not by who had the fanciest runs, but by who connected with *America’s* heart.
Here’s the twist: this season's Idol isn’t just about vocal chops (though, trust me, these guys have those in spades). It’s about authenticity, growth, and that indefinable “it” factor. The kind of presence that makes you stop scrolling and *listen*. Whether you’re a fan of soul, country, R&B, or rock, this group delivers—and then some.
Thunderstorm Artis: The Hawaiian Poet Who Turns Every Song Into a Soul Sermon
Born into a musical dynasty on Oahu’s North Shore, Thunderstorm Artis isn’t just a name designed to stand out — he’s a force of nature. With a background as rich as his name is bold, Artis grew up in a family band, learning music the way superheroes learn martial arts — *immersed* and *intense*. His performance of James Taylor’s “Fire and Rain” wasn’t just a cover; it was a full-circle moment from a fan to a mentee to a masterful storyteller.
What makes Thunderstorm truly heroic in this lineup is his emotional honesty. He doesn’t chase gimmicks. He connects. As he said himself, he used to perform with his eyes closed, but now he *opens* them — “to show my soul and let them participate with me.” That’s not just performance advice. That’s origin story material.
Gabby Samone: The Gospel-Trained Warrior Who Quietly Commands the Stage
Gabby Samone’s journey from introverted church soloist to fearless stage queen is the kind of character arc that writers on Daredevil or Black Lightning would kill for. Her take on “Saving All My Love For You” was nothing short of stellar — precise, passionate, and with just enough edge to keep you hooked.
What’s more impressive? Gabby’s humility. She didn’t just step into Idol because she *could*—she stepped in because Jennifer Hudson told her to go for it. And now, she’s proving that being shy doesn’t mean you can’t *hit* a million high notes while emotionally pulverizing a crowd.
John Foster: The Quiet Country Killer Turning Choruses Into Confessions
John Foster’s story is straight out of a small-town coming-of-age novel. Having discovered his voice in the dark during a power outage at his family’s bayou camp, Foster’s relationship with music is as intimate as it is instinctual. His Elvis-infused “Jailhouse Rock” performance was energetic, sure — but it was his emotional control and storytelling that made it memorable.
Foster is grappling with a classic Idol dilemma: how to stand out in country without sounding like *everybody* else. Lionel Richie’s advice to him — “I love your timbre... but I want to hear YOU” — was a game-changer. And Foster is ready to answer that call.
Canaan James Hill: From Reluctant Competitor to Gospel Gladiator
Canaan James Hill didn’t even plan to be on Idol. Like a last-minute recruit pulled from the crowd for a team that needed soul, he’s turned every performance into a mission. Aretha Franklin’s “Mary, Don’t You Weep” wasn’t just a song for Canaan — it was a ministry. A full-body, full-spirit delivery that made you feel like you were in church — whether you’re religious or not.
And that’s the thing about Canaan. He doesn’t see Idol as a competition. He sees it as a platform. He’s writing songs, he's listening to feedback, and he’s growing. The kind of evolution that comics fans know leads to *legendary* status.
Kolbi Jordan: The R&B Powerhouse With a Decade-Long Idol Dream
Kolbi Jordan’s journey is one of persistence and self-discovery. After a decade of auditioning, she’s not just here — she’s *shining*. Her performance of “You’re All I Need to Get By” was a flawless fusion of passion and control. Gospel-raised, theater-honed, and soul-filled, Kolbi is the kind of artist who doesn’t just sing — she *embodies* the music.
Her connection with the judges, especially Carrie’s affirmation that she’s “anointed,” adds another layer to her story. This isn’t her first rodeo, and now she’s riding like a pro.
Slater Nalley: The Self-Taught Phenom With a Voice Like a Weathered Son of James Taylor
Slater Nalley’s choice of Elton John’s “Your Song” may not have been a James Taylor moment, but it sure felt like a soulful conversation with an old friend. The 18-year-old from Atlanta doesn’t read music, and yet he *creates* with a mastery that’s nothing short of instinctual. His voice — gritty, gentle, and grounded — speaks of experience beyond his years.
Jelly Roll’s mentorship has clearly struck a chord with Slater, who learned to trust his gut even when the coaching said otherwise. It’s a classic hero’s journey: learn the tools, but don’t lose your voice in the process. Slater hasn’t.
Jamal Roberts: The Energetic Gospel Flame With a Heart of Gold
Jamal Roberts is the kind of contestant who brings *energy* and *purpose* to every performance. His “Shout” to The Isley Brothers was explosive, fun, and full of love — especially for his daughters watching somewhere out there. And when Ryan Seacrest cradled his baby for a moment, it felt less like a TV gag and more like a mission statement: Jamal is here not just for himself, but for *them*.
He’s been learning from the judges, especially Lionel, and he’s flipping criticism into fuel. His message? Stay true, don’t second-guess, and always give your best. Sound familiar, superhero fans? That’s *peak* hero ethos.
Breanna Nix: The Devoted Mom and Worship Warrior Turning Pain Into Power
Breanna Nix’s “Open Arms” performance was a heartfelt tribute not only to her own mother but to every parent watching and hoping. Balancing a career, a competition, and motherhood, Breanna is juggling more than most — and doing it with grace and grit. Her connection to Carrie Underwood’s advice about reaching *one soul* rings especially true.
She’s weaponized her faith, used her music as therapy, and stepped onto the Idol stage without a plan — only a mission. To touch lives. To never undereingage her audience again.
Gabby Samone, John Foster, Thunderstorm Artis... These Are Your Idols Now
This isn’t just a season of American Idol. This is a season of artists finding their voices, learning to *use* them, and daring to dream bigger than the show itself. Whether they wear it on their sleeve like Jamal, or express it through subtlety like John, each finalist brings something irreplaceable to the mix.
Sure, the fandoms argue — and they always will. Some say Amanda Barise should still be here. Others wonder how Josh King keeps surviving. But that’s the beauty of Idol. It’s not just about who wins. It’s about who *becomes* something along the way.
And this season? These top 10 aren’t just becoming something. They’re becoming legendary.