The most successful singing talent competition is back on TV after a two-year break. Now showing on ABC, previously aired on Fox, American Idol has revolutionized reality television forever. The original series was from 2002-2016 with the “Farewell Season” airing as the 15th season. For eight consecutive television seasons from 2003 to 2011, American Idol was ranked number one for a performance or results show. Because of its great talent each year, the singing show has created stars from Kelly Clarkson to Carrie Underwood. The revival series premiered on March 11, leaving the new all-star judges were amazed by the new generation of singers, so a recap is in action.

One of the most humorous and skillful performances was by Noah Davis who sang “Stay” by Rihanna. If he won he would buy alpacas for his family farm which confused the judges, leaving them with grins on their faces. After he sang, Katy Perry said “wig” and left Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan in confusion once more (ABC). His performance was moving and powerful which earned him a golden ticket to Hollywood.

The most head-turning performance of the evening was sung by Alyssa Raghu who sang “Almost is Never Enough” by Ariana Grande. Her commanding vibrato left the judges in awe as she finished with teary eyes. At just 15 years old, Lionel was very impressed with her maturity and technique at such a young age. Her inspiring audition earned her a spot in the next round in Hollywood.

Later on the “heartthrob” of the night, Trevor Holmes captivated Katy so well that she wanted more of him. He sang Brett Young’s “In Case You Didn’t Know” accompanied by his smooth guitar skills. The unique quality of his voice caught the attention of the judges and acquired him a golden ticket to the next round.

Afterward was the emotional performance by a formally paralyzed singer, David Francisco. Singing “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder to his girlfriend who helped him get to the stage, his emotion and raw talent was overwhelming to the judges and even brought Katy to uncontrollable tears. Katy saw the struggle David endured and the way his girlfriend looked at him was more than enough for a yes to Hollywood.

The first episode of the revival of American Idol was filled with new hopes and dreams becoming realities. To many students, American Idol was a part of their childhoods. Maddie Cusick (10) who has gone to a live show of the singing contest says that “it is one of the shows my entire family can watch together without one of us getting bored.” Season 16 has just started and the more talented singers will come, so stay tuned!