In a season filled with powerful voices and emotional performances, Brooks Rosser has quickly carved out a distinctive place on American Idol Season 24. The singer-songwriter and guitarist from Bel Air, Maryland delivered one of the most memorable moments of the night during the show’s new Ohana Round, held in Hawaii.
Performing at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Rosser stepped onto the stage with quiet confidence—and left it with a standing ovation and a spot in the Top 20.
A Performance Built Around Family
Before the first chord rang out, Rosser shared the personal meaning behind his song choice. Performing in front of his own family, the families of fellow contestants, judges, and a panel of industry experts, he reflected on the theme that defined the Ohana Round.
“Family is everywhere, and they mean everything,” he said—an observation that perfectly echoed the spirit of the episode.
His song choice was Everywhere, Everything by Noah Kahan, a folk track known for its heartfelt lyrics about devotion and connection. It proved to be the perfect match for Rosser’s vocal style and emotional delivery.
The Voice That Turned Heads
Dressed simply in a striped shirt and tan pants, Rosser took center stage with his guitar slung over his shoulder. What began as a calm, intimate performance quickly transformed into something striking.
As he leaned into the melody, his airy falsetto soared across the venue, catching the attention of everyone in the room—including the industry experts seated near the stage. Several appeared visibly surprised at the range and clarity of his high notes.
Rather than delivering a straightforward cover, Rosser reshaped the song with his own interpretation. His delicate tone gave the folk hit a fresh emotional texture while maintaining the spirit of the original recording.
The performance built steadily, culminating in a powerful moment that drew a standing ovation from the crowd.
Carrie Underwood Praises His Growth
Among those impressed was judge Carrie Underwood, who highlighted how Rosser has grown more confident with each appearance this season.
She praised both the uniqueness of his voice and the authenticity he brings to every performance.
According to Underwood, the most exciting part of watching Rosser compete is seeing him step further into his own artistry each week. His ability to make listeners want more every time he sings has become one of his defining strengths in the competition.
A Platinum Ticket From the Ohana
Rosser’s performance didn’t just impress the judges—it resonated deeply with the audience participating in the Ohana Round.
Thanks to votes from family members and fellow contestants, he earned one of the round’s Platinum Tickets, guaranteeing his place in the next stage of the competition.
The other two Platinum Tickets were awarded to:
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Jordan McCullough, chosen by his fellow contestants
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Kyndal Inskeep, selected by industry experts
Together, the trio automatically advanced into the Top 20.
The Remaining Top 20 Contestants
Rosser now competes alongside a diverse group of singers representing different musical styles and backgrounds. The Top 20 lineup includes:
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Genevieve Heyward
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Philmon Lee
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Madison Moon
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Braden Ramfelt
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Jake Thistle
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Jesse Findling
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Ruby Rae
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Lucas Leon
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Hannah Harper
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Chris Tungseth
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Julián Kalel
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Rae
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Daniel Stallworth
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Abayomi
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Kutter Bradley
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Makiyah
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Keyla Richardson
Contestants Who Were Eliminated
While the Ohana Round created several standout moments, it also marked the end of the road for ten contestants:
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Chloe Lauren
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Sheldon Riley
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Bryant Thomas
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Michael Garner
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Bella Emry
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Brenna Brigman
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Kiera Howell
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Brianna Yancey
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Jacquie Lee
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Tianna Roberts
What’s Next for the Competition?
With the Top 20 now confirmed, the competition will continue as contestants perform for a nationwide audience and compete for viewer votes.
New episodes of American Idol air Monday nights on ABC and stream the next day on Hulu.
For Brooks Rosser, the journey is just getting started. If his emotional performance in Hawaii is any indication, his soaring falsetto—and his ability to connect with listeners—could make him one of the season’s most compelling artists to watch. 🎤
