A shy Filipino American kid from Daly City, California has blossomed into the top 10 of American Idol.
Francisco Martin advanced out of the top 20 based on fan voting to make it into the top 10. He now goes onto next week’s show when the top 7 is revealed.
He was the last contestant named into the top 10, causing the 19 year old some nervous moments. Judges however emphasized the order of the reveal was random and not based on number of votes.
Martin, as did all the contestants appeared from home and introduced viewers to his mom, a frontline nurse at Laguna Honda nursing home in San Francisco, his sister Francesca and his dog.
He said being at home under quarantine has “messed with his mind” and his anxiety as he’s constantly worried about his mother being exposed to the coronavirus.
Preparing for Idol has taken his mind off things, which he says has helped. He admits being anxious about consistently being on top of his game.
He performed Falling like the Stars which left judge Katy Perry in tears of joys .
Fellow judge Luke Bryan called Martin “a diamond in the rough” who “really knows how to get all the emotion out of a song.”
Lionel Richie heaped on his own praise.
“Halfway through that song, I saw you fly out of your nervousness and give us exactly what you’re all about-true talent, man.
The judges used their save to advance Makayla Phillips into the next round, meaning there will be 11 competing for 7 slots next week.
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