The group of 56 contestants that started out five weeks ago for the first-ever American Song Contest has officially been cut down to 22 for the first of two-week semi-final rounds. The show of course started off with the results of last week’s final qualifying round, here are the four remaining qualifiers along with the two redemption contestants:
Ada Leann – MICHIGAN (Judge’s Pick)
Tenelle – AMERICAN SAMOA
John Morgan – NORTH CAROLINA
Sweet Taboo – CALIFORNIA
REDEMPTION VOTE:
Ryan Charles – WYOMING
Enisa –NEW YORK
Just like the qualifying rounds, there will be one top judges’ pick that will automatically go on to the finals along with four other songs in which that vote is combined in with a public vote. Boy, was I excited to see Ryan Charles, who performs “New Boot Goofin’”, come back, I really feel like he’s the dark horse and underdog combined! It’s going to be tough because this first round started off with four out of the five top judges’ picks. Either way, it was a great night of music and hits! Here are the first 11 contestants and how their performances went feel free to check out the video of New Boot Goofin’ above:
KENTUCKY– Jordan Smith
Song Title: “Sparrow”
Setting up the bar really high with starting off the show with this song. Once again Jordan Smith comes out with his incredibly strong vocals and heartwarming lyrics. Definitely one of my frontrunners for the contest.
COLORADO – Ryker Lynch
Song title: “Feel the Love”
Bringing island vibes to the stage from Colorado is Ryker Lynch. This song is still a fun one, an anthem that celebrates life and love.
NEW HAMPSHIRE – Mari
Song title: “Fly”
The Latina Lizzo is back with the song that she says is her life’s anthem of having to live the life you’re given and be a warrior and fight for what you believe in. Once again Mari came out swinging with her energy and incredible vocals.
WASHINGTON – Allen Stone
Song title: “A Bit of Both”
Oh Allen Stone, with a voice like butter and a song that is amazing. I don’t know how he hasn’t won a Grammy yet. He again brings an incredibly soulful performance that I think will for sure get him to the finals. Along with Jordan Smith, he’s one of my frontrunners for the whole thing.
ALABAMA – Ni/Co
Song title: “The Difference”
ASC’s power couple comes back to the stage with their beautiful song. They come back with their beautiful lyrics, powerful melodies, and passionate stage presence.
WYOMING – Ryan Charles
Song title: “New Boot Goofin’”
I don’t care who you are, this song slaps! I want him to keep going all the way! This song is unique, it’s fun, and it’s catchy as hell! Shoot, even Snoop Dogg loves this song.
RHODE ISLAND – Hueston
Song title: “Held On Too Long”
Week 1’s jury selection comes back with his gravely powerful vocals. Hueston brings a real sense of realness to his performance, you can definitely feel the emotions in his lyrics.
MONTANA – Jordan Prill
Song title: ” Fire it Up”
This song is a fun one. Though it’s typical country music that fits in the modern norm nowadays it’s still a great tune that’s catchy and fun.
MICHIGAN – Ada Leann
Song title: “Natalie”
The youngest in the competition comes back with her song that is based on real life. Ada brings a Taylor Swift energy to her performance in both vocals and energy.
MASSACHUSETTS – Jared Lee
Song title: “Shameless”
Jared Lee comes back and wows the crowd once again. A powerful love ballad that is backed up by Jared’s incredible vocals and a killer track.
OKLAHOMA – Alexa
Song title: “Wonderland”
Oklahoma’s own K-Pop star wraps up the first night of the semifinals with her song inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Great beats, choreography, and visuals! I hope she makes it to the finals!
JUDGES PICK: Allen Stone
JOE HAWK’S PICKS: Alexa, Jordan Smith, Ni/Co, and of course Ryan Charles
The American Song Contest airs on NBC Monday nights at 8 pm.
\m/,
Joe Hawk