American Idol 2025: Kolbi Jordan Nabs Platinum Ticket in Nashville
American Idol Season 23 premiered Sunday night (March 9) with judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan returning as well as host Ryan Seacrest. Joining them on the judges panel is Season 4 winner and country superstar, Carrie Underwood. A true standout moment was the first audition of the night from Kolbi Jordan which ended up earning her a Platinum Ticket. (Read our Recap)
The night started in Nashville with the 26-year-old Tulsa native who works in HR for a dental company. Kolbi has a very bright personality that shone from the moment she entered the audition room. She told the judges she sings church music, but also loves classic singers like Patti Labelle who came to Tulsa on tour this past year, and gave Kolbi a flower. Lionel mentioned that he has Patti on speed dial, prompting Kolbi to joke, “don’t call her because I’m going to pass out!” Carrie added, “don’t let me down Tulsa.” Kolbi responded with a joke: “That’s what you’re going to say before I sing.”
Kolbi auditions with the gospel song, “Epiphany” by Chrisette Michele. The opening showcased a rich tone. She has a huge voice with the ability to hit gorgeous embellishments including runs and jazzy flutters. There’s a lot of soul in her sound, and she hit every note with feeling and ease. It’s an excellent first audition that showcased her ability. And even if there was a lot going on, the number didn’t feel overdone.
A phone call from Patti Labelle
After Kolbi finished singing, Lionel picked up his phone and called Patti Labelle. “There is a young woman who has really been sangin’.” he told her. Kolbi didn’t know what to say, so she simply greeted Pattie with a “hey beautiful” and joked about wanting some pie. Lionel dreams of them singing “side by side.” Carrie called Kolbi’s voice “incredible” and added, “you had dynamics within dynamics.” Luke noted that “people and culture generalist, you can kiss that title goodbye.” Lionel described her instrument as “just crazy great.” And combining her vocal talent with her big personality means “you have a crowd that is pleased,” said Lionel. She earned 3 yeses and her mom joins her for the celebration.
American Idol judges surprise Kobi with Platinum Ticket in front of thousands at Titans game
Later in the episode, before the last audition airs, Ryan called up Kolbi informing her that the judges want her to perform again tomorrow. She and the judges arrive at Nissan Stadium for the Tennessee Titans game. At the end of the first quarter, she sings “Lady Marmalade.” But when she finishes, the judges surprise her with a platinum ticket upgrade. In the past, this special ticket has allowed recipients to skip a round of Hollywood Week.
Kolbi was the overall standout of the night, but there were a few other singers who had moments., including Gabby Samone who gave me chills on a rendition of “Natural Woman.” Ché Chesterman was short-clipped but still stood out with a big soulful vocal on “Mirror” by Madison Ryann Ward. The other big moments of the night included Slater Nalley’s touching original which he wrote for his English teacher who had lost her son in 2016, and Isaiah Misailegalu who showed potential with a cover of “A Song for You.”
