“You’ve got this grit in your voice… I could totally hear you singing country,” Carrie Underwood told 16-year-old Kiera Howell during her standout American Idol audition.
The Geneva, Alabama native brought both personality and powerhouse vocals to the stage, performing “Don’t Tread On Me” by We The Kingdom. Though still in high school, Howell has already spent years performing at local festivals, building confidence and connecting with audiences through her love of music. Auditioning for American Idol was her chance to take that passion to a national audience.
When asked about her musical preferences, Howell shared that she gravitates toward Christian rock. She poured that passion into her performance of the 2020 hit from We The Kingdom’s debut album Holy Water. Dressed in a rhinestone-studded denim dress, she immediately commanded attention, delivering strong vocals and navigating the song’s challenging runs with ease. Her emotional delivery made the faith-centered lyrics feel deeply personal.
The judges were quick to praise her talent. Underwood highlighted the versatility in Howell’s voice, noting she could see her crossing into multiple genres beyond Christian rock.
“There’s a little grit in there,” Underwood said. “I could hear you singing country. I could even hear a little Stevie Nicks vibe. I really like your voice.” She also mentioned hearing shades of former Idol contestant Gabby Barrett in Howell’s tone.
Luke Bryan playfully joked that Howell might have set a new record for holding a Carrie Underwood-style note, while Underwood laughed that they might have to officially test that someday.
On a more serious note, Bryan described Howell as “very, very spunky” with “great energy,” but encouraged her to be mindful and “sing smart.” Underwood agreed, advising her to lean into youthful, fun song choices that match her vibrant personality if she advances in the competition.
Lionel Richie wrapped up the feedback by praising her infectious energy, comparing it to someone who could light up the entire “Idol University” cheering squad.
With three enthusiastic yeses from the judges, Howell secured her golden ticket to Hollywood Week.
“This is so unreal,” she said, reflecting on the moment. “I’ve watched this on TV, and now I’m holding this ticket on TV. This day was absolutely perfection—and I’m going to Hollywood.”
New episodes of American Idol air Monday nights on ABC and stream the following day on Hulu.
