Sophia James (age 20) from Long Beach, California sang an emotional rendition of “In My Room” by The Beach Boys during the Top 10 Homeward Bound round on American Idol 2020 (Season 18). The “Top 10” was modified to a Top Eleven as the judges added another singer when they used their “Save” for Makayla Phillips.
The American Idol judges were all impressed by Sophia James’ (aka Sophia Wackerman) performance.
Lionel Richie said Sophia has found where her “delivery sweet spot” is. “You found it and I love your delivery from top to bottom,” he said.
Katy Perry described Sophia’s performance as “so upper echelon.” She said Sophia will have a career in music whether she wins American Idol or not. “You have absolutely all the talent and you really brought it with that interpretation of that song.”
Luke Bryan said Sophia is a wonderful vocalist. “I found myself immersed in the emotion and it’s just magic to watch,” he said.
Contestant number: 13
Song: “In My Room” by The Beach Boys
Previous Performance: Sophia James sings “Burning” Top 20
“In My Room” was released in The Beach Boys’ 1963 album Surfer Girl. It was also released as the B-side of the “Be True to Your School” single. The song peaked at number 23 in the U.S. (the A-side peaked at number 6, for a two-sided top-40) and was eventually inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.
American Idol Season 18 premiered at 8PM, February 16, 2020 on ABC television and airs Sundays at 8/7c. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, filming of American Idol was temporarily suspended and contestants were sent home. Production resumed in late April, with all of the contestants performing from their homes.
Ryan Seacrest continues his role as the show’s host and Bobby Bones returns as the in-house mentor. Despite budget cuts, Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie come back as judges for their third season of the series.
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