'American Idol' finalist Abi Carter releases new single 'This Isn't Over' ahead of finale

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Ahead of the "American Idol" season 22 finale on Sunday, the show's Top 5 contestants, including Indio native Abi Carter, released original songs on Friday.

The Top 5 contestants this season included Carter, Jack Blocker, Triston Harper, Will Moseley and Emmy Russell. Carter, Blocker and Moseley made it into the Top 3 and are vying to be named the next "Idol" winner.

'This Isn't Over'

Carter's song, "This Isn't Over," tells a story about personal growth, becoming a stronger person and wanting to tell one's younger self that it's not over, even when it seems impossible to keep going. It also sends a message to the young singer's fans that, regardless of what happens on Sunday, Carter is just getting started with her music career.

As she's displayed throughout "Idol," Carter shows off her haunting powerhouse vocals on her new song, which she debuted live in Indio on Tuesday.

This is the second song Carter has released during her time on the competition series. Her first single, "It's All Love," was released on March 29.

An emotional week for Carter

Carter's new single is just the latest accomplishment to an already exciting and emotional week.

On Tuesday, she returned to Indio for the traditional "Idol" hometown visit for the Top 3 contestants. Carter had an opportunity to reunite with former teachers and current students at George Washington Charter School in Palm Desert, spend time with young gymnasts at the Indio Community Center and even take a trip up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. She closed out her day by returning to downtown Indio for a parade and concert.

"Indio is home to me. As directionally challenged as I am, the mountains have always brought me such support around here," Carter said in front of the downtown Indio sign. "To me, it's like a blanket wrapped around me. I'm excited to see Indio on national television because I hope that people love it as much as I do."

Indio native and “American Idol” finalist Abi Carter reacts as she looks out at the crowd during her performance on Center Stage in downtown Indio, Calif., on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.
Indio native and “American Idol” finalist Abi Carter reacts as she looks out at the crowd during her performance on Center Stage in downtown Indio, Calif., on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.

Carter thanked members of the audience for their unwavering support throughout her "Idol" journey and encouraged them to chase their dreams as well. The singer added she never necessarily wanted to win the show, but her hometown visit made her realize, "Wow, I really want to win it for them."

How to watch the 'American Idol' season 22 finale

The "American Idol" finale, during which footage from Carter’s visit to her native Coachella Valley will be shown, will air live at 5 p.m. PST Sunday on ABC. It will also be available to stream on Hulu starting Monday.

Jackalope Ranch, located at 80-400 Highway 111 in Indio, is also hosting a watch party beginning at 4 p.m. Sunday. Attendees can enjoy drink, food and a chance to win prizes.

Ema Sasic covers entertainment and health in the Coachella Valley. Reach her at ema.sasic@desertsun.com or on Twitter @ema_sasic.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: 'American Idol' finalist Abi Carter releases new song 'This Isn't Over'