An American Idol emotional audition led to a beautiful moment of prayer after the nervous Christian singer asked if she could pray with the judges. What a powerful thing to see on National TV!
20-year-old Samantha prefers to go by her stage name of Just Sam. This aspiring singer started performing on the subway when she was in middle school. This unique stage provides her with enough finances to pay her bills and rent, but life is not always easy.
RELATED: 9 Emotional Auditions that Made the Judges Cry
When her parents were unable to take care of Sam and her sister, their grandmother stepped in and adopted the siblings. She made sure that the girls had clothes, food and a roof over their head.
Grandmother Elizabeth said, “God is good. But, at times, it’s really hard."
Today, Sam is hoping to live out her dreams and create a better life for her family by auditioning for American Idol.
As Sam stood in front of the judges, she was visibly nervous.
In fact, she was barely able to get through the first verse of ‘You Say’ by Lauren Daigle before she had to take a pause. After letting the tears flow, all of the judges gathered around the young singer for an encouraging embrace.
RELATED: Contestant Dedicates American Idol Emotional Audition To Late Husband
Then, Sam went into a powerful rendition of ‘Rise Up’ by Andra Day. All of the judges raved about Sam’s touching performance.
Luke Bryan said, “A lot of people come in here and they haven’t lived the struggles you have. You have those qualities in your voice to tell stories and you can sing really beautifully.”
But it was Lionel Ritchie who reduced Sam to tears when he told her that she was in a safe space.
He went on to say, “I’m so grateful that God put you in front of us.” And that’s when Sam asked if she could pray with all three of the judges. They enthusiastically agreed. And a powerful moment of prayer followed as they offered up thanks and reflection.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Contestant Facetimes Sick Mom During American Idol Emotional Audition And It Has 1 Judge Sobbing
This is such a special moment for so many reasons. And I’m so glad that it is being seen by millions of people all over the world. As Sam says at the end, ‘Thank you, Jesus!”