Lawrence County’s idol wows Hawaii audience

“American Idol” contestant Noah Thompson of Louisa performed his rendition of “Blue Side of the Mountain” by The SteelDrivers Monday night.

By Lilly Adkins

BSN Associate Editor

LOUISA — Lawrence County’s idol, Noah Thompson, thrilled the crowd in Hawaii with his rendition of “Blue Side of the Mountain” by The SteelDrivers while playing his guitar on Monday night’s episode of “American Idol.”

Thompson showed off the grittiness and raspiness to his voice as he sang in front of the live audience.

“Idol” judge Katy Perry said Thompson gave “solid country efforts” during his performance, but added that she missed some of the “Oh, my God” moments.

“I think you were bringing some of the country to the island,” Perry said. “Staying true to your roots, right?”

Judge Luke Bryan, a country singer, also had something to say.

“We pulled you out of an environment that you didn’t see coming a hundred miles away,” Bryan said. “Keep going for it, keep taking our advice, keep following your heart and keep being the country boy that is standing right there.

“There is a sweet spot in your voice. When you start really, really recognizing it, you might win the whole competition.”

Thompson’s local fan base held their fourth watch party Monday night at the Garden Theatre in Louisa to show their support.

Winners from the two-night event won’t be announced until Sunday, April 17, at which time they will be cutting the top 24 down to the top 20. One of the contestants who received a platinum ticket, Kenedi Anderson, decided she would leave the show for personal reasons.

The top 20 will be narrowed down to the final top 14, who will be heading to the live shows where America will decide the winner.

During Thompson’s final performance from Hollywood Week, in the showstopper round, he performed “Stay” by Rihanna and wowed the judges.

Some of his other performances include “Burning House” by Cam and “Giving You Up” by Kameron Marlow.