American Idol XIII Top 31 Contestant #26

BrandyNeelly-Top31

I’ll be posting several American Idol Top 31 contestants previews every day in the run up to the American Idol XIII premiere on January 15.

Click for the FULL list of the American Idol XIII Top 31

Brandy Neelly didn’t make it past Hollywood week when she auditioned, impressively, for both American Idol Seasons 11 and Season 12. But the young singer didn’t give up, coming out for American Idol Season XIII. This time she landed a spot in the Top 31.

And it’s about time. This teenaged country singer has some impressive pipes.

Back in season 11, her audition was prominently featured in a promo. But oddly, the full clip wasn’t featured on the show.

Brandy came back the following year, singing in front of a new panel of judges, and still impressed. This time, we saw her Chicago audition, and a heartbreaking backstory with a happy ending. She was adopted by her aunt after her birth parents gave her up to social services. The Louisville, Kentucky native impressed the judges with a belty version of “Your Cheatin’ Heart” by Hank Williams. Four very enthusiastic yesses followed.


Brandy Neelly – Chicago Audition – American… by IdolxMuzic

Sadly, Brandy was cut after a drama filled group round. She was part of Kree Harrison’s Dolly Chicks group that performed “Sin Wagon.” The girl who caused all the drama advanced, while Brandy did not. The singer was gracious, promising as she left the stage, “This is not the last time you’re going to see Brandy Neelly.”

“From this season I have learned,” said Brandy as she departed, “When it’s your time, it will come together.” Indeed.


#WrongLyrics & Dolly Chicks – Group Day… by IdolxMuzic

In her Season 12 Road to Hollywood, interview, Brandy says that winning American Idol has been her dream “forever.”  She describes herself as “the girl next door” but adds “…there’s a lot more to me. “I’m dedicated,” she says, “I’m coming back as many times as it takes me to get on that stage.”  I’m picking up on a theme here. Carrie Underwood is mentioned as  a musical inspiration.

This could be Brandy’s year! Check out her Twitter, Facebook and YouTube Channel. As you can see from the photo above, she’s got a sleek new look this season.

A few performances from her Youtube Channel:

Anymore by Travis Tritt with Michael Powers

She teams up with singer, Michael Powers, on few videos “Love this guy,” says Brandy “Had so much fun with him! We meet a long time ago auditioning for American Idol…”

Holding Out For a Hero by Bonnie Tyler

We Are Never Getting Back Together

Brandy Neelly – American Idol XIII – Detroit Audition

Brandy Neelly – American Idol XIII –

About mj santilli 35169 Articles
Founder and editor of mjsbigblog.com, home of the awesomest fan community on the net. I love cheesy singing shows of all kinds, whether reality or scripted. I adore American Idol, but also love The Voice, Glee, X Factor and more!