Livy Spino made sure her American Idol audition was anything but ordinary. The 22-year-old from a small town in West Virginia didn’t just arrive with big vocals — she showed up with bold energy, a bright personality, and even a bag of Texas Roadhouse rolls and peanuts in hand.
Currently working as a server at the popular restaurant chain, Livy has become known for stealing the spotlight during the restaurant’s lively “Texas-sized Yee Haw” birthday celebrations. One of those moments even went viral on TikTok, giving her voice attention far beyond the dining room. But now, she’s ready for a much bigger stage.
Greeting judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood with snacks and confidence, Livy declared, “I’m bringing the energy, the rolls, and my personality.”
For her audition song, she took a bold risk by performing Underwood’s own hit, “Love Wins.” Accompanied by piano, Livy delivered a powerhouse performance, leaning into the song’s uplifting message and showcasing the full force of her impressive vocals.
After her final note, Luke Bryan voiced a concern, wondering if she might be pushing too hard. Underwood agreed gently, explaining that while Livy clearly has a “big instrument,” starting at full intensity leaves little room to build.
Instead of shutting her down, the judges offered her a second chance. With the tempo slowed and a softer approach encouraged, Livy sang the chorus again — this time with more restraint and emotional nuance. The difference was immediate.
“That was so much more emotional,” Underwood said. “I’m excited to see all the sides of you. Yes, for me.”
Bryan echoed the praise, reminding her she doesn’t need to oversing to prove herself. “You’re good enough without pushing,” he said. “I’m a yes.”
Lionel Richie sealed the moment with the final vote. After a lighthearted comment about still being full from the rolls, he turned sincere. “It is an absolute yes for me,” he told her. “If you just calm down and let that voice shine, you’ve got something magical.”
With three yeses and a golden ticket in hand, Livy celebrated alongside her family, who rushed in to share the emotional moment. She later reflected on how hard she’s worked for this opportunity and expressed her desire to follow in the footsteps of Idol country success stories like Carrie Underwood and Gabby Barrett.
“Now it’s my turn,” she said confidently. “I’m ready to show the world what I can do. Let’s win this baby.”
With one final Texas-sized “Yee-haw,” Livy Spino’s journey to Hollywood officially began.