If your favorite American Idol hopeful survived the Genre and Duets rounds of Hollywood Week, you’d best white-knuckle the vermouth bottle, Sally, because there’s still the Solo gauntlet to get through before Season 18’s Top 40 is decided.
To give these kiddos a jolt of encouragement, last year’s standout contestant, Alejandro Aranda, stops by to dole out a pep talk. “It’s okay to feel nervous and it’s okay to feel whatever you’re feeling, but just know that it’s your song and you’re performing and you’re expressing yourself,” says Alejandro.
Golly! The first solos go by and the judges seem pleased. Katy Perry stands up and exclaims, “Oh my god! What a cool song!” after Kimmy Gabriela belts out “I’m Here” from The Color Purple.