In addition to the duet performances on “American Idol” season 24 tonight on ABC, we had a crossover with “Dancing With the Stars.” We got to see some of the “DWTS” pro dancers take the stage tonight as the Top 5 on “American Idol” 2026 performed. Keyla Richardson was one of those Top 5 singers, and she kicked things off on “American Idol” 2026 tonight. Check out the Keyla Richardson DWTS crossover performance video from tonight below in our “American Idol” spoilers.
DWTS Crossover Performance
For her performance, she is singing “River Deep, Mountain High” by Ike & Tina Turner. Randy said he loved that she stayed on the melody, but let it marinate. She said she didn’t have the confidence, but this experience has changed her. This one took a while to kick in, so I was a little bored. However, the lyrics kick in and so does she, especially when the “DWTS” pros (Gleb Savchenko, Jan Ravnik, Rylee Arnold, and Witney Carson) come out. It’s a fun performance and a start to the night.
For the judges, Lionel said that’s the way you start a show. What he loved the most was the attitude. Paula said her vocal range is like a weapon. Her confidence is blooming so beautifully. Carrie said she is kicking us off on a high note. Tonight is a great night for training ground with the dancers. Luke said all of that was a lot for him to take in. You were the anchor of a crazy, entertaining moment. It was a great moment of entertainment.
Last Week’s Taylor Swift Performance
For her performance, Keyla sang “Lover.” I was intrigued to see how she would do with a Taylor song. She definitely made it her own. Like every other performance, she was bringing us to church with this performance, but through Taylor Swift. She hits some big notes along the way, and another killer performance.
For the judges, Carrie said, we never have to worry about you. We get to sit back and watch her perform. You impress me every week. Nikki said she brought something new to that song. She loved what she did with it. You make it look so easy, and it feels so good. Thank you so much for that. Luke said that your confidence when just singing on the mic, people feel that confidence. Your look right now is on-point, so proud of you. Lionel said when you can take a song and turn it into you. You are beating us up out there; it’s beautiful to watch.
Last Week’s California Song Performance on ‘American Idol’
For her second performance last week, she sang “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. It’s crazy to think this was the first time she had ever listened to Etta James.
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. Watching her growth is so inspirational. Lionel said she’s walking, she’s got the mic. Let the congregation say, Amen.
What did you think of Keyla’s DWTS crossover performance on “American Idol” tonight?
