“American Idol” season 24 is quickly approaching, and as viewers count down the days to the highly anticipated premiere, the beloved series is already teasing what fans can expect from the next wave of Idol hopefuls eager to become music’s next big star.
In a clip shared on the “American Idol” Instagram page, fans are introduced to Hannah Harper, who auditions with an original song that holds deeply personal meaning to her, and is so relatable that it brings judge Carrie Underwood to tears.
‘American Idol’ Hopeful Hannah Harper Makes Carrie Underwood Cry During Audition Rounds
“American Idol” is almost here, and fans are already getting a sneak peek at the Idol hopefuls, including mom-of-three Hannah Harper.
In the Instagram clip, Harper vulnerably opens up to judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood about her emotional experience with postpartum depression after the birth of her third child.
“I’m Hannah Harper. I have three little boys, and after I had my youngest, I had postpartum depression,” she begins. “I remember being on the couch. They were all crying at the same time. All I wanted was to be a mom, and I couldn’t do it.”
It was then that Harper shared she was moved to write a song about what she was experiencing.
She continued, “I was praying that the Lord would calm my spirit. And I got up off my couch, and I wrote this song.”
The clip then sees Harper belting out her emotional tune, “To those days, I wanna cry, being their momma is who I’m meant to be.”
Harper’s song visibly moved Underwood, who is seen wiping away her tears. “Well, that’s about the most relatable song I’ve ever heard.”
Harper Is Bringing a Heartfelt, Country Sound to ‘American Idol’
Country artists are having a major moment on “American Idol,” with momentum building last season thanks to young standouts like Slater Nalley and runner-up John Foster. While Harper may face stiff competition this season, her voice is undeniably unique.
A look at her Instagram shows her beautifully covering songs by The Issacs, Alison Krauss, and Trace Adkins. In fact, Harper comes from a musical family, with one post showcasing her mother and father joining her to sing a country song.
On Jan. 2, Harper shared that she had taken the big step of auditioning for “American Idol,” posting a photo of herself standing in front of the iconic Idol sign with her guitar case in hand.
“Last year around this time, I was bathing the idea of pursuing a solo career in country music in prayer. I didn’t want to tread on ground that wasn’t appointed for my feet,” she began her caption. “And boy, let me tell you… this is ground I never imagined myself standing on — but when He opened the door, I ran through it and I can’t wait to see where this journey leads. 🤍”
“American Idol” season 24 premieres on Monday, Jan. 26, on ABC.
