Amber Fiedler (age 23), a server from Idaho, sang an emotional version of “Trust in Me” by Etta James.
“Trust in Me” was written by Ned Wever, Milton Ager, and Jean Schwartz. Popular versions in 1927 were by Mildred Bailey and by Wayne King & His Orchestra. It was revived by Eddie Fisher and peaked at number 29 on Billboard’s Best Seller chart in 1962. Etta James released a version in 1961, which peaked at number 30.
Amber, who is 38 weeks pregnant, said that her pregnancy led her to reflect on her life and her future. She is going for open adoption for her baby girl, saying that the family she chose will be able to give her child everything she wants. And that’s something that Amber admitted she cannot do.
Scaling the notes in her soulful rendition, Amber impressed the American Idol judges. They applauded and gushed that her performance was so good. Luke Bryan said that Amber’s sound was timeless and easy to listen to while Lionel Richie marveled at her absolute control. Katy Perry said Amber had a big shot of going far in the competition but worried that her due date will almost coincide with Hollywood Week.
With such glowing comments, all of the judges voted “Yes” to Amber and handed her a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.
Amber said that her mom is a “user” and that she was raised by her grandma. But for the past few years she was “going out and drinking a bunch” and was getting caught up in life. When she got pregnant, her outlook in life changed. She had time for introspection and time to look at the big picture of life. She said that sometimes she doesn’t even have $20 in her pocket. “If I’m not ready to be a mom, why would I put her through that. With the family that I chose, they’re gonna be able to give her everything she wants and I know I’m not gonna be able to do that…I’m hoping anyway that she’s really gonna understand that I am trying to choose the best for her.” She said it’s going to be an open adoption, so the baby will know her as well.
She said her mom has been clean for four years now and they are currently building a relationship.
Judges Comments:
Luke Bryan joked after Amber sang, “That’s with a foot in her rib.” Then he continued, “Very very timeless sound. Very easy to listen to. It was just timeless in my opinion.”
Lionel Richie said, “You were totally absolutely positively in control.”
Katy Perry commented, “You definitely have a very big shot at going very far if you want to. Katy noted that Hollywood Week is one week after Amber’s due date. She said Amber’s childbirth may be late or early.
Amber said, “If it’s meant to be, it’s all gonna work out.”
Lionel said that joking aside, Amber nailed it. “I think you did fabulously well,” he said.
Luke said putting Amber’s story out there helps many people too. “I think there are a lot of girls struggling with exactly what you struggle with,” he said. Then he joked that Lionel would like to be a godfather.
Lionel said, “Yes sir.” Katy told Amber, “We’re here to support you through this process, ok? You’re not alone.”
The judges then all voted “yes” and gave her the Golden Ticket to Hollywood. Katy commented, “Maybe you’re not ready to be a mom. But you are ready to be an American Idol.”
In a post-audition interview, Amber said she fulfilled her dream to get a Golden Ticket and said she’s so excited. “My dream for the baby is that she lives a beautiful and happy life with the life that I have chosen for her. And I know she’s going to.”
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