Mon Apr 28 23:00:00 UTC 2025: ## American Idol Sends Home Two After Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night
**HOLLYWOOD, CA** – American Idol’s Top 14 faced their toughest challenge yet during a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame themed episode on Thursday. Mentored by James Taylor, the contestants tackled songs from iconic inductees, resulting in both stunning performances and surprising eliminations.
Desmond Roberts took a significant risk, performing The Commodores’ “Jesus is Love” in front of original lead singer Lionel Richie. His powerful rendition, which included impressive vocal runs Richie himself didn’t utilize, earned him high praise. Richie admitted feeling outdone, commenting, “You found some octaves I didn’t sing…You tried to take my song!” Luke Bryan agreed, adding, “You’ve got one of the most dynamic voices I’ve ever heard.”
Despite the judges’ enthusiasm, the audience votes weren’t enough to secure Desmond’s place in the Top 12. He was eliminated along with fellow contestant Amanda Barise, ending their American Idol journeys.
Other highlights included Mattie Pruitt’s powerful rendition of Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart,” earning her feedback from Carrie Underwood to add more “sass” to her performance. Canaan James Hill’s gospel-infused performance of Aretha Franklin’s “Mary Don’t You Weep” drew criticism from Underwood for not fully embracing the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame theme.
The episode also revealed the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees, including Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, and Soundgarden. The Top 12 will continue their quest for the American Idol crown next week.
First Piper 