Kiera Howell may be just 16 years old, but she brought confidence, grit, and powerhouse vocals to her American Idol audition. The Geneva, Alabama native impressed the judges with a bold performance of a We The Kingdom song — a choice that highlighted her love for Christian rock and her dynamic vocal tone.
Though she admitted to feeling nervous while introducing herself, Howell quickly settled in once the music began. “I sing at festivals a lot — those are my favorite,” she shared. “I love interacting with people. I’m super social. I’m a talker. I’ve been drawn more toward Christian rock lately, and that’s what I’m singing today.”
Launching into the chorus — “Ain’t no devil gonna tread on me” — Howell showcased a raspy edge and surprising vocal strength that filled the room. Her gritty tone and confident delivery earned immediate applause from judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan.
Underwood was the first to react, praising Howell’s versatility. “There’s a lot of range in your tone,” she said. “You’ve got this cool grit. I could hear you singing country. I could hear some Stevie Nicks in there. I really like your voice — and who needs oxygen, right?” she joked, referencing Howell’s impressive note-holding ability.
Bryan playfully suggested Howell might have broken a Carrie Underwood record for longest held note. “You’re very spunky and you’ve got great energy,” he added. “Just make sure you sing smart.”
Underwood also offered advice about song choice, encouraging Howell to lean into material that reflects her youthful, bubbly personality. “If you keep your song choices young, fun, and spunky, that’ll serve you well,” she said with a smile.
Richie chimed in, noting that her vibrant energy would fit right in at what he jokingly called “Idol University.”
When it came time to vote, all three judges delivered an enthusiastic “yes,” sending Howell to Hollywood Week in Nashville.
After she left the room, Underwood compared her to Season 16 finalist Gabby Barrett, noting a similar vocal quality and spark.
Overwhelmed with excitement, Howell told producers, “This is so unreal. I see this on TV, and now I’m living it. Today was absolute perfection — and I’m going to Hollywood Week.”
With talent, personality, and momentum on her side, Kiera Howell’s Idol journey is just getting started.