Noah Thompson became a frontrunner on American Idol season 20 after the singer performed a countrified cover of Rihanna’s “Stay” for the Showstopper round. After performing a gorgeous arrangement of the hit song, the judges advanced Noah into the Top 24, which filmed at the Disney Aulani Report in Hawaii. From there, Noah survived round after round until he emerged as the 2022 winner.
Now, Noah has revealed that he recorded a studio version of the cover, previewing a bit for fans on social media. “Can’t wait for y’all to hear this!” Noah gushed alongside a video clip of him singing along in his car. The recorded version is even twangier than his live version, featuring a mournful slide guitar out front.
UPDATE: Noah revealed his “Stay” cover will come out on July 29. Click to pre-save
Listen to a preview of Noah Thompson’s studio version of “Stay” below.
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Before his Shostopper performance, Noah explained that he sang “Stay” with his girlfriend Angel, the mother of his child, back home in Louisa Kentucky. Noah made smart song choices throughout the competition. And his ability to “flip” pop songs and make country songs his own impressed judges and fans alike.
Since his win, the singer has spent time in Nashville recording with producer Jimmy Robbins, who helmed his winners single, “One Day Tonight.” As far as releasing new music, Noah teased, “It’s going to happen pretty soon. We’re working on some stuff. I’m looking forward to getting to sit down and try and write some songs with some people.”
Although Noah has said on several occasions that he doesn’t consider himself a songwriter, he has been writing and sharing his efforts with fans, including a tune he titled “On the Outside.”
In June, Noah and Idol runner-up HunterGirl made their first CMA Festival appearance, sharing the stage with Idol and DWTS alum, Jimmie Allen and Season 19 winner, Chayce Beckham. Both are signed to BBR records, where Noah has likely landed. 19 Recordings has officially partnered with BMG, which BBR Recordings is an affiliate.
