Platinum Ticker Recipient Canaan James Hill Stuns Lionel Richie
American Idol Season 23 auditions came to a close on Sunday night ahead of Monday night’s (March 31) Hollywood Round. The judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan had a third Platinum Ticket to give out and it went to the talented 17 year old gospel singer, Canaan James Hill from Dallas, Texas. (Read our Recap)
Outside the audition room, Canaan shared with host Ryan Seacrest that his grandfather, who is also a gospel singer, got him into music. Canaan explained to the judges, who assumed he was in high school, that he graduated early. Since finishing high school, the mature young singer has been preparing to enter the ministry. “What God has called and chosen for [him] to do,” answered Canaan about his decision to graduate early.
Canaan performed the gospel song “I Need Your Glory” by Earnest Pugh for the judges. It started quite subtle, including some nice flourishing runs. Additionally, he showcased his ability to belt and hit the typical gospel growls. In spots, Canaan went over-the-top, especially in the middle. But he still hit the notes with poise. To be able to get widespread support from the voting audience, he will likely need to reign it in a little bit and show that sometimes less is more, which he did show he had in him at both the start and end of the performance.
“Do people just run to the baptism pit, jump in, and get saved immediately?”
Lionel was so stunned, he got up out of his chair and asked, “Would you do that again?” calling the performance “powerful.” Carrie wondered if Lionel was OK as he sat back down. She described the singer’s voice as “velvet” and “butter,” adding that he possessed a “gift.” Luke said, “I’ve never seen anything like it, Lionel.” Luke wondered, “Do people just run to the baptism pit, jump in, and get saved immediately?” when Canaan sings in church. He compared his voice to all kinds of pleasant food groups.
The judges gave Canaan resounding yeses, as Lionel headed over to the Platinum Ticket case where he had difficulties getting it out. Once Luke helped extract the special ticket out of the case, Lionel explained Platinum Ticket holders can skip the first round of Hollywood Week. “You get to sit back and watch all the people you are going to slay,” Lionel said. Canaan was the final Platinum Ticket, joining Kolbi Jordan and Filo. All three singers are very soulful with Canaan being gospel and the other two leaning more R&B.
American Idol 2025 Hollywood Week begins Monday, March 31
Canaan was a standout from a night that was a bit slower talent-wise. But one other singer who had me excited to hear more in Hollywood was Kyana Fanene who delivered a very solid rendition of Allen Stone’s “Unaware,” a song that has become a singing show staple. Yani also brought powerhouse vocals, even with an unusual song choice of the Sunday Night Football Theme song. The other two singers who showcased raw potential were Clara McRae’s with a folky, almost-country spin on “Radioactive” and Will Carter whose tone shined on his original “Dreams.” It will be interesting to see how this season shakes out given the multitude of powerhouse singers. It’s always fun to see some dark horses begin to emerge in Hollywood Week which begins on Monday night (March 31).
