American Idol’s Lionel Richie left in tears during emotional moment – ‘completely screwed me up’







Ahad Sanwari




Lionel Richie generally presented himself as one of the more stoic members of the jury of american idol. However, an audition on the last episode of the series left him quite emotional.


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The judges were greeted by Kelsie Dolin, a girl from Boone County, West Virginia, who came to audition after being inspired by the death of her grandmother.


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WATCH: Lionel Richie performs All night long At New York


After performing a performance by Kelly Clarkson Room by roomLionel, Katy Perryand Luke Bryan encouraged her to give more power to her voice.


She then sang Adele When we were young as she was pumped by the three judges, eventually to the point that Lionel was in tears.


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As Kelsie continued to grow more confident with her singing, Lionel couldn’t help it and had to wipe away his tears as his co-judges proudly watched.




Kelsie Dolin’s audition left Lionel in tears


“We’re so moved and we’re so upset because you’re sitting in West Virginia,” Luke said. “And you have this beautiful voice that’s never been challenged, it’s never been pushed, it’s never been lifted up and loved.”


A still emotional Lionel added: “He’s the only person I know who has just walked in here and completely screwed me up.”


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Kelsie eventually received a yes from the judges and was sent to the Hollywood round. A compilation of clips and photos from her audition on social media drew rave reactions from fans.


“No bad grades, incredibly endearing laugh. Raw talent @officialkelsiedolin is heading to Hollywood,” read the post, to which one fan replied, “Fantastic!!! I love contestants like these.”



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Judges often pushed contestants to go the extra mile in their performance


Another said, “Crying!!!!! She literally blew my mind!!! I’m so glad they gave her a second chance! STILL got goosebumps,” and a third said. added: “Wow wow wow beautiful amazing voice.”


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