“American Idol” Names Its First 7 of Top 14 Finalists (PHOTOS)
American Idol is getting closer and closer to completing its search for the next superstar, but did your favorite make the cut?
On Monday night's episode (April 9), 12 of the show's 24 semi-finalists performed with celebrity guests that included Andy Grammer, Luis Fonsi and Sugarland, just to name a few. The success of these sets paired with individual performances from Sunday night ultimately determined which seven acts moved on, and which five were eliminated, and it was all good news for Catie Turner, Cade Foehner, Michelle Sussett, Jonny Brenns, Dennis Lorenzo, Michael J. Woodard and Gabby Barrett.
Sadly, it was the end of the line for Layla Spring, Dominique, Brandon Diaz, Kay Kay and Trevor McBane.
Still, judge Katy Perry insisted that the contestants who'd been cut still had bright futures ahead.
"just because your #americanidol journey has ended, please don’t let it discourage you. Keep singing, keep following your dreams! Trust and believe I heard no 1,786 times before I heard yes. KEEP SWINGING," she said.
Next week, the remaining 12 semi-finalists will square off in identical format to yield the second and final set of seven finalists — on April 15, they'll perform solo songs, and on April 16, they'll sing with celebrity duet partners that include Colbie Caillat, Lea Michele and Rachel Platten.
Check out the first seven finalists of American Idol's 16th season in the gallery below.