Alejandro Aranda (age 24) of Pomona, California sang “Yellow” by Coldplay during the American Idol Top 40 Showcase round at the Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii in front of a crowd and the American Idol judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan.
After his performance, the American Idol judges told him that he will be one of the Top 20 contestants of the competition.
Katy Perry gave this comment to Alejandro after his amazing rendition of Coldplay’s “Yellow”:
I don’t want to put words in your mouth but I feel like maybe you took a risk trying out for American Idol. Coz you definitely have a different vibe. It’s not stereotypical pop stardom.
Last night was really special. It showed off so many different things. Keep taking those risks. Coz we believe in you. But at some point it’s gonna be out of our control.
We do have control now. You are in the Top 20.
Alejandro couldn’t believe what he heard, laughed a bit and asked, “You serious? I really don’t know how to react.”
Katy added, “You’re brilliant. Just keep believing it. I like that you’re like a non-stereotypical pop star. Can I call you a pop star? Alejandro, from one pop star to another, welcome to the Top 20!”
After Alejandro thanked the judges for believing in him, Luke Bryan said “That boy is so talented.”
Katy Perry said that it’s crazy when people don’t believe in themselves when they’re so good. Luke Bryan agreed and said, “I know, when they can change music.”
Alejandro said later, “I’m totally happy right now. When Katy Perry called me a pop star, that’s pretty dope.”
