LOS ANGELES — An “American Idol” contestant from Georgia is now one step closer to her dream, while another unfortunately is heading home.
The auditions are officially over and the real competition has started with Hollywood Week.
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“American Idol” episode Monday featured a genre night theme, where the singers got to pick their genre and a song within it.
Former Miss Georgia and Miss America Betty Maxwell’s performance did not air, but she did advance to the next part of Hollywood Week.
She told Channel 2′s Heather Catlin that she is excited and relieved to make it to the next level. She is eager to prove to everyone who she is as a singer.
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One performance by a metro Atlanta singer did air during the episode. Sam Finelli from Peachtree Corners chose pop and gave it his all.
Finelli said life hasn’t always been easy but music has always been his outlet.
“I’m autistic and have learning challenges. I had a hard time fitting in and making friends,” he said.
The competition has changed a lot and allowed him to feel connected to others in a whole new way.
“I come out of my shell when I perform. When I’m singing, I’m just someone else.”
Unfortunately, the judges decided his performance wasn’t enough to keep him in the competition. However, Finelli described his time on Idol as beautiful.
“I want to inspire...whatever you set your mind to, you can do,” he said.
Hollywood Week continues with a duets challenge Sunday night and the final round of judgement next Monday night. The episodes air at 8 p.m. on Channel 2.
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