Contestant Gabby Barrett Continues to Grow As She Advances To The Top 7 of American Idol

Contestant Gabby Barrett surprised us all with her powerful vocals, earning her a spot in this season’s Top 7 of American Idol. Before sharing her talent with the world Gabby sang in her local church choir, working with a group of women who’ve continuously championed her dreams. With her father by her side Gabby began performing at the age of 11. Now 18, Gabby wanted to show her father how much his support means to her and decided to take the next step in her journey by auditioning for American Idol.
Gabby auditioned in Nashville, having prepared to perform Good Girl by Carrie Underwood. However the judges found that Gabby’s country accent hid her natural range. Giving her the chance to choose another song for her audition, Gabby gave the judges a preview of powerful vocals which was enough for all three judges to agree that she should advance to Hollywood.
Taking the judges’ remarks to heart, Gabby choose to perform Aretha Franklin’s Ain’t No Way in round 2. But it wasn’t until Gabby was given the chance to perform with Sugarland, when she became one to watch. Having looked up to Jennifer Nettles as a child, Gabby couldn’t believe that she was not only going to meet Jennifer, but also perform a duet with her. Commenting that Jennifer was a “classy woman,” it became clear that Gabby wasn’t playing games during her performance.
Returning to her roots, Gabby gave the judges her rendition of Maren Morris’ My Church, Miley Cyrus’ The Climb later redeeming herself with a performance of Carrie Underwood’s Church Bells during Showcase Week. Understanding that “no matter how prepared you are there will always be challenges up ahead,” Gabby is excited for what the future holds as a Top 7 contestant. Having picked up the guitar and written her first single titled Fireflies, Gabby is ready to make a name for herself in country music.
So tune in to American Idol every Sunday at 8 EST/ 5 PST and text “14” to 21523 to vote Gabby Barnett as your next American Idol.