Even though Jackson said, “This song could trip her up,” the judges loved Harper’s performance. Bryan described it as “sexy” and “sultry,” telling Harper her choice was “not what we expected from you.”
Abdul said she didn’t like women “being overly sexual. I think it’s gross.” However, the guest judge thought Harper was sexy in a subtle way. “I was really proud of you,” said Abdul.
“I’m taking all the risks this week and I’m givin’ it all that I got,” Harper said later in the show when introducing her next song, “A Broken Wing” by Martina McBride. Harper said the song stretched her by compelling her to explore her range. She performed it with former contestant Kellie Pickler, and Harper again received high praise for her performance.
RELATED: MercyMe’s Bart Millard Has Been Voting for Hannah Harper on ‘American Idol’
Gospel singer and pastor’s daughter Keyla Richardson chose “River Deep, Mountain High” by Ike and Tina Turner and later performed Stevie Wonder’s “Living for the City” with former contestant Taylor Hicks. Richardson received high praise from the judges for her performances.
In comments to Us Weekly last week, Richardson and Harper shared how much they appreciated being able to talk about their faith on the show.
“I love God,” Richardson told the outlet. She said that when she chose her song for the “Songs of Faith” episode she considered the fact that “I wanted everyone to worship with me. So that’s my heart right there.” For that episode, Richardson sang “Jireh” by Elevation Worship and Maverick City Music feat. Chandler Moore and Naomi Raine.
View this post on Instagram
Worship director Jordan McCullough chose “Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis for his first song Monday night, dedicating it to his six younger brothers. His duet was with former “American Idol” contestant Elliott Yamin, and they sang “A Song for You” by Donny Hathaway.
RELATED: ‘American Idol’: The Show’s Most Famous Christian Singers (And Where They Are Now)
After McCullough performed “Footprints,” Abdul commented on his singing gift, saying, “I don’t know where it comes from, but it’s not from here…it’s otherworldly.” Shaking his head, McCullough pointed upward.
Someone mentioned this moment on McCullough’s Instagram post. “My absolute favorite moment of the season? When Paula was saying your talent is so incredible it comes from elsewhere and IMMEDIATELY Carrie, Lionel, you, and all the other contestants just pointed up to the Lord,” said the fan. “GOOSEBUMPS. The witness y’all are giving is the most beautiful thing 🙌🏼.”
