The top five finalists for American Idol 2023 have been announced, but fans have differing opinions about the selections. To know more about their next performances and the theme, let’s take a closer look at the schedule as the finale approaches.
Top 5 American Idol 2023
In ‘American Idol’ 2023, Wé Ani, one of the top 5 contestants, wore a purple dress and sang into a microphone. The top 5 performed on May 14, 2023. The top five finalists were officially revealed on May 7, 2023.
The eight contestants, including Warren Peay, Zachariah Smith, Haven Madison, Colin Stough, Megan Danielle, Iam Tongi, Wé Ani, and Oliver Steele, performed solo renditions of Alanis Morissette’s songs. Further, Lionel Richie and Katy Perry were replaced by Morissette and Ed Sheeran as judges, as Richie and Perry were attending King Charles III’s coronation.
Zachariah Smith, Megan Danielle, Iam Tongi, Wé Ani, and Colin Stough made it to the top five, while Oliver Steele, Haven Madison, and Warren Peay were eliminated.
1. Wé Ani
Wé Ani’s early memories of music come from her upbringing in Harlem and New Jersey. She recalls her earliest musical memory being the soundtrack of the 1939 film “The Wizard Of Oz” that she listened to and watched on VHS. She would repeatedly rewind the tape as soon as she learned how to use the rewind button.
This experience introduced her to “The Wiz,” an alternative version of the story, which amazed her. It sparked her interest in exploring various artists, and she realized that music had a profound effect on her emotions.
2. Megan Danielle
A young Danielle was captivated by a piece of equipment at her family’s home, a karaoke machine her grandma owned. She was always curious about it, as her grandma never used it.
One day, she asked her grandma to show her how it worked. Her grandma had a collection of CDs and songs, and that’s how Danielle began her musical journey, singing along to the music on the karaoke machine.
3. Colin Stough
When Colin Stough was just five years old, he expressed his desire for a guitar to his mother. She initially thought it would be a waste of money and time. However, on his sixth birthday, she surprised him with the instrument. Stough began experimenting with the guitar and learning on his own. This marked the beginning of his musical journey.
He didn’t take formal lessons but instead locked himself in his room, turned to YouTube videos, and immersed himself in listening to music. His mother also provided him with a book containing basic chords like C, D, and G, which he used to expand his knowledge. With determination, he continued to progress in his musical pursuits.
4. Iam Tongi
When Colin Stough was just five years old, he expressed his desire for a guitar to his mother. She initially thought it would be a waste of money and time. However, on his sixth birthday, she surprised him with the instrument. Stough began experimenting with the guitar and learning on his own. This marked the beginning of his musical journey.
He didn’t take formal lessons but instead locked himself in his room, turned to YouTube videos. And, immersed himself in listening to music. His mother also provided him with a book containing basic chords like C, D, and G, which he used to expand his knowledge. With determination, he continued to progress in his musical pursuits.
5. Zachariah Smith
At the age of five, while watching the 1980 movie “Coal Miner’s Daughter” with his mother, Zachariah Smith suddenly burst into song, singing Loretta Lynn’s title track.
His mother was taken aback and exclaimed, “Where did this come from? My boy can sing!” She shared the news with their family, and that’s when Smith’s journey into singing began. He started performing in church.
It took some time for Smith to realize his musical talent. When he was eight, he entered a competition resembling “Christian Idol” and secured a third-place finish. It was at that moment that he began to believe he could potentially pursue a career in the music industry.
When is the ‘American Idol’ 2023 Finale?
The American Idol 2023 top five are competing for a spot in the finale. The journey to the finale will be broadcast on Monday, May 15, 2023, at 9 p.m. ET, with the finale scheduled for the following Sunday, May 21, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET.
It’s anticipated that the top five will be reduced to the top three for the finale, although it’s uncertain if there will be any guest mentors or judges. Lionel Richie and Katy Perry will be back at the judge’s table alongside Luke Bryan.
Fans can vote for their favorite contestants through AmericanIdol.com/vote, the American Idol app, or by sending a text. Voting happens each week while the show is on, concluding during the final commercial break.
Who Won American Idol 2023?
Iam Tongi is the newly crowned champion of the 2023 American Idol season. American Idol, a beloved singing competition television show, has a rich history of delivering unforgettable music, captivating dramatic moments, and heartening personal stories.
Iam Tongi’s victory in the 2023 season marks another addition to the legacy of American Idol winners. The show, which has been running since 2002, has consistently provided a platform for aspiring singers to showcase their talent and connect with audiences across the nation.
Over the years, it has become known for its ability to produce memorable songs, intense competition, and stories of individuals pursuing their dreams and achieving success.
Also read: Iam Tongi: Songs, American Idol Season 21 Audition
