It was another amazing night of auditions on “American Idol” 2026 tonight. Week 2 of the season 24 auditions on “American Idol” gave us some highs and lows. From voices that stopped the judges in their tracks to performances that brought tears to everyone’s eyes. These three “American Idol” season 24 auditions from tonight stood out, so you won’t want to miss them. Check out the videos below in our “American Idol” spoilers.
Julián Kalel
The final audition of the night went to Julián Kalel. He auditioned last year, but didn’t know what to expect. Julián sang an original song then. The judges believed he was a star, and he could win it all. However, he couldn’t continue in the competition. There was worry about him continuing on this journey with his mental health. He was diagnosed with anxiety and depression, so he stepped back, and now he is back to try again. He wants to show people that we shouldn’t be defined by our weaknesses, but by our strengths.
For his audition, he sings an original song called “Lone Guitar.” He said he wrote this song at his lowest point. The lyrics are very powerful, and you can feel the emotion from him. He’s a great singer and has a very good voice.
Lionel said welcome back. He said he was born enough. Carrie said everything about him is just honest. Luke said he’s got the magic. He is incredible and has all the skills of a great singer, and just have fun with it. It’s three yes votes, as he is headed to Hollywood Week.
2. Sheldon Riley
He is here from Australia, so the judges ask why he is here. Sheldon auditioned for a big show in Australia, but they said that he wasn’t enough. He then created this character who wore avant-garde looks. He’s been on every show since, but now he wants to just be himself and prove that his voice is enough.
For his audition, he sings “Brother” by Matt Corby. I mean, we all knew this one was going to be amazing, right? Such a strong voice and such a good range. I like it when he truly gets into it, as that emotion is real.
Luke said he is crazy talented and crazy unbelievable. That was impressive. Lionel said he is an artist, and he is authentic. He has stage presence…it’s all there. Carrie said she’s really glad he’s here and she loves his voice. We get three yes votes, and he is headed to Hollywood Week.
3. Braden Rumfelt
He and his twin brother grew up playing baseball. He then found out he had a medical condition where his legs were in the wrong position. This meant it was the end of his baseball dreams. However, this injury made him realize that his true passion was singing and what it meant for him. Now, here he is on “American Idol” 2026.
For his audition, Braden sings “Girl Crush” by Little Big Town. When I heard the song choice, I was a little nervous. However, he knocks it out of the park. Braden has such a strong voice, and it works on this song. He hits some big notes along the way, and I like it.
Carrie said she is happy and surprised. He needs to loosen up a bit. Luke said he is a racehorse. Lionel said he has a top end to his voice, and the texture when he gets up there is so sweet. Luke said he can sing, and he’s going to do well in this competition. He gets three yes votes and is headed to Hollywood Week.
Who do you think had the best auditions on “American Idol” 2026 tonight?
Those are my Favorites of the night….exactly in that order