We got a chance to see the Top 7 on “American Idol” season 24 perform two different songs last night. The night started with Taylor Swift songs. Then it finished with the singers taking on songs from California artists. After the performances were done, Ryan Seacrest delivered the results, and the Top 5 on “American Idol” 2026 were announced. Who had the best performances of the night on “American Idol” last night? Check out our picks from the Top 5 performances and the videos below in our “American Idol” spoilers.
1. Keyla Richardson – California Song Performance
She said this is the first time she has listened to Etta James. She said she embodies California, so she hopes to do the song justice. When I saw Etta James, I thought it would be a perfect song choice for Keyla. First of all, how could Keyla have never heard an Etta James song? She performs “I’d Rather Go Blind” by Etta James. Yeah, it was a perfect song choice for her, and she was feeling all of those lyrics up there tonight. That was perfection.
For the judges, Nikki said I know Jennifer Hudson throws her shoes, but I don’t have any. That was an iconic moment. Luke said tears just started happening for him. Eatching her growth is so inspirational. Lionel said she’s walking, she’s got the mic. Let the congregation say, Amen.
2. Jordan McCullough – California Song Performance
He said he loves the emotion behind this song. Jordan said he wants to reach California energy with this performance. For this performance, he is singing “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt. What can’t Jordan sing? He is great at picking songs and just singing the heck out of them. He showed off a great range here. Hitting huge notes, then softening for some high notes. He has such control of his voice and that note towards the end. I mean, come on! This man is a star and a favorite, that’s for sure.
For the judges, Lionel said I have heard that song a long time. You got me crying on that song I’ve heard a long time. Your delivery was right on point. Let the congregation say, Amen! Carrie said she doesn’t care what he sings; every time he opens his mouth, she hears the Holy Spirit.
3. Braden Rumfelt – Taylor Swift Song Performance
It seems fitting that Braden is singing “cardigan” while wearing a cardigan sweater, right? This is the last Taylor song of the night, and I think we may have ended it with one of the best performances of the night. Braden has been a little off for me the last few weeks, but this was a great song choice and a great performance. I loved it.
For the judges, Nikki said he was in the pocket. He ate that song; it was so good. Luke said that’s like my favorite thing he’s done so far. You took me on the emotional journey of that song, and I loved it. Lionel said he kept thinking this guy was in the pocket. You put your foot right in, and he stayed in it. The story you were telling, I believed it. Carrie said he seemed to be comfortable in it. It’s one of her favorite things he’s done.
Who had your favorite performances last night on “American Idol” season 24?
