'American Idol' contestant sings James Taylor's hit song 'Fire and Rain'
An "American Idol" contestant impressed legendary singer-songwriter and musician James Taylor with a rendition of one of Taylor's hit songs Sunday night.
During Sunday night's episode of "American Idol," contestant Thunderstorm Artis took the stage and sang Taylor's "Fire and Rain."
Artis delivered a moving performance with his guitar, which "Idol" judge Lionel Richie called "a masterful job."
"You absolutely turned into your song," Richie said.
Fellow "Idol" judge Carrie Underwood also praised Artis' take on Taylor's song, saying, "Well done on unabashedly singing it your way."
Judge Luke Bryan added, "It had hints of James Taylor but a lot of you. Way to be you!"
Artis sang "Fire and Rain" for the show's "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame" episode, in which contestants took on iconic songs from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends. The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees were also revealed during the show. Cyndi Lauper, OutKast, Soundgarden, The White Stripes, Salt-N-Pepa, and Bad Company were among those who were announced as inductees.
Taylor, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2000, was the guest mentor for all of this week's "Idol" contestants and offered advice to each of them prior to their performances.
During their one-on-one session, Taylor described Artis' rendition of "Fire and Rain" as "beautiful" and advised him to keep eye contact with the audience.
"You did a version of that I have not heard," he added. "Really unique."
Taylor also said that he sees Artis as "a version of me."
Artis, meanwhile, told Taylor that his music had "shaped" him as an individual.
"I've connected with your music my entire life," Artis added. "Thank you for being an inspiration."
At the end of the night, Artis was saved and moved on to the Top 12. Desmond Roberts and Amanda Barise were eliminated.
The competition continues Monday night with the Top 12 performing songs inspired by iconic "American Idol" moments, honoring the show's history. Fantasia Barrino, who won "American Idol" on season 3, will return to the stage.
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