Watch the Viral ‘American Idol’ Audition That Moved Lionel Richie to Tears

From House Beautiful

Every American Idol season features a few auditions that tug some heartstrings, but the latest viral audition—Ronda Felton’s performance of “One Night Only” from Dream Girls—might be the show’s most emotional tryout to date. It was so moving, in fact, that it made Lionel Richie cry, and that doesn’t happen often.

There were tears before the singing even began as Felton, 19, became overwhelmed by stepping onto that iconic Idol logo for the first time. She simply felt blessed to be there because she and her single mom spent most of her life living at homeless shelters, on couches, and in cars, despite her mom working multiple jobs. So Idol felt like the opportunity of a lifetime.

Then there was the performance, and the once timid Felton became a strong, powerful voice that raised goosebumps across the country and gave Jennifer Hudson a run for her money. By the song’s end, it was Papa Richie’s turn to cry and deliver a moving message that not just Felton needed to hear.

“I was doing really well until you came in and did something that no one has done tonight, which is touch me to the point of making me cry,” he said. “Every once and a while, life happens and then you figure, how do I get out of this situation? And God provides a crack in the wall. Just a crack, because every other crack has been there forever. But that crack is just enough for you to get through. And my dear, you just found that crack. Because that was the moment that will change your life.”

Felton silently let tears fall from her eyes, and she couldn’t help but smile. The judges unanimously gave her a golden ticket to Hollywood and she immediately rushed to grab her mom. The pair celebrated in a tearful embrace and then the whole room held a mini-concert to “Zoom” by The Commodores. As a viewer, the longing for a group hug was palpable, but social distancing measures got in the way. Even so, the spirit of the audition transcended the screen and deeply impacted all who watched.

“I can’t stop crying. This is so beautiful. A mother and daughter’s bond, unbreakable!” one viewer commented on YouTube. “We all need a Lionel Richie in our lives. He’s been so compassionate, caring, genuine, and authentic this season. So refreshing,” another wrote. “Tears! I’m convinced she’s making it to the end. This girl IS a star!!!” another added.

After the audition aired, Richie posted an Instagram of himself and Jennifer Hudson, congratulating Felton on her success. “Every once in a while a performance moves me to tears,” he wrote. “@rondafelton the best is yet to come! I know @iamjhud would be proud.”

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