Canaan James Hill Delivers Another ‘Unbelievable’ Gospel Performance on ‘American Idol,’ Landing in the Top 12

He desires to “go forward with my gift and do what God has called and chosen me to do.”

Luke Bryan commented on Hill’s vocal range. Within his gospel and soulful sound, Hill has nailed his pitch—whether low or high. Said Bryan, “That note you hit made [Carrie] sneeze!”

Christian Artists Continue To Influence ‘American Idol’

Canaan James Hill isn’t the only Christian contestant who made it to the Top 12 of the 23rd season of “American Idol.”

Breanna Nix, from Denton, Texas, also made the Top 12. For the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame week, Nix chose to sing “Open Arms,” by Journey.

For other weeks, Nix has sung songs depicting her deep faith, including Lauren Daigle’s “Still Rolling Stones.”

Judge Lionel Richie said to Nix, “You brought something into this whole competition. You have actually been leading in terms of just bringing more and more of your faith into being.”

On Easter Sunday, Carrie Underwood, Jelly Roll, Brandon Lake, and CeCe Winans joined the “American Idol” stage.

Underwood talked about a trend she’s seeing on the show. Contestants “usually say something before they sing, about why they want to be the next [winner],” she explained. “And so many of them said, ‘Because God put me here,’ and they’re leaning into that.” The new judge called that trend “awesome.”

Hill, Nix, and 10 other contestants will next compete for the Top 10, and two artists will be sent home.