For the judges of American Idol, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Riche, it was hard to fight tears.

The reason for this was Freddie McClendon, a 23-year-old participant who told his father’s story-there was killed in 2023-via an emotional song, You never loved him.

Several media covered his father’s death and it was shown in several podcasts and documentaries.

Remember that Freddie went to the American Idol scene to tell more about his father.

“He was something so much bigger than just the true crime story of the week,” he shared. “He was our father and he meant the world to us.”

The judges’ reactions were overwhelming. Luke compared McClendon with a “Modern Paul Simon.” Carrie broke down in tears and said, “It’s so brave of you to decide that you will choose the story.”

Last but not least, Lionel urged the young participant to bring his family on stage as all three judges gave him a golden ticket.

“I am so proud that I was able to tell my father’s story, and that meant the world that it resonates with Carrie Underwood,” said Hello Singer. “Dad, we’re going to Hollywood.”