Wyatt Pike was just a few days away from attending business school when he decided to drop out and pursue his other passion: music.
It was a risky move. Music isn’t exactly the most stable career — especially during a pandemic that shut down virtually all concert halls and venues — and Pike has said that he has questioned his choice from time to time.
But on Sunday night, “American Idol” revealed that Pike, a 20-year-old singer-songwriter from Park City, Utah, made the top 16. And during that episode, as Pike again performed for a spot in the top 12, “Idol” judge Luke Bryan gave Pike a compliment that validated the big risk he took two years ago.
“I remember one of the coolest things that ever happened to me is the day I realized that i get to do music forever, under any circumstance,” Bryan said. “And I’m telling you, Wyatt, you’re going to be able to do music for the rest of your life.”
During Sunday night’s episode, the top 16 singers all performed for a spot in the top 12, which will be revealed Monday night. Throughout his time on “Idol,” Pike has been praised for his unique style and authenticity as a singer and songwriter. His performance of Kings of Leon’s “Use Somebody” Sunday night was no different.
“You have a style. You have a stye on stage that we like to watch,” “Idol” judge Lionel Riche told Pike. “And to watch you take that song and make it your song, you’re on your way to something big, my friend.”
“Idol” judge Katy Perry added that she hopes Pike continues on in the competition, and would like to see a more vulnerable, emotional performance from him.
“I really believe in you,” she said. “I think whatever happens — you’re it.”
‘American Idol’ eliminates Liahona Olayan
Liahona Olayan, the other Utah-based singer in the “Idol” competition, got eliminated Sunday night.
“Thank you so much for all the support you have shown me on my #americanidol journey,” the 17-year-old singer wrote on Twitter. “I’m honored to have made the friends I made and worked with amazing musicians and artists. This is just the start and only the beginning! Thank you all & love you guys!”
Who is in the ‘American Idol’ top 16?
The following singers made it to the “American Idol” top 16:
- Alyssa Wray
- Graham DeFranco
- Grace Kinstler
- Alanis Sophia
- Willie Spence
- Deshawn Goncalves
- Wyatt Pike
- Cassandra Coleman
- Caleb Kennedy
- Colin Jamieson
- Casey Bishop
- Madison Watkins
- Beane
- Hunter Metts
- Ava August
- Chayce Beckham
What happens on ‘American Idol’ tonight?
- At the start of Monday night’s episode, “Idol” will reveal 10 contestants who are moving to the top 12.
- Based on performances from the remaining six singers, the “Idol” judges will then pick the final two contestants to round out the top 12, the Deseret News reported.