Kiera Howell of Geneva, Alabama, has been singing for as long as she can remember. Now, at just 16 years old, she’s ready to put her voice—and her confidence—to the test on the national stage. Howell will audition on Season 24 of ABC’s American Idol during the episode airing February 9.
“I’ve been watching American Idol since I was a little baby—since I could comprehend it,” Howell said. “It’s always been a dream of mine. I just didn’t know when the time was right. When I turned 16 and realized I met the age requirement, I thought, ‘I might as well go for it.’”
While the experience was thrilling, Howell admits it wasn’t easy. Still, she’s grateful for the opportunity and eager for viewers to finally see her audition. One phrase has stayed with her throughout the journey:
“Whatever happens is in God’s hands,” she said. “I can’t complain about anything. It’s all just amazing, and being here is definitely in God’s plans.”
A Musical Childhood in Geneva
Howell attends Geneva High School and comes from a large, close-knit family that includes her parents, sister, half-brother, grandparents, and many cousins. Growing up, she frequently performed “home concerts” for them.
“All the time,” she laughed. “I used to sing in our living room with karaoke on the TV in the background. I would never stop.”
No Single Genre—Just Music
When it comes to musical style, Howell refuses to be boxed in.
“I literally do everything,” she said. “I’m so indecisive. I sing Journey, Adele, Lauren Daigle, Carrie Underwood, the Beatles—anything.”
Recently, she had to make a difficult decision to step away from her school band program, which she had been part of for years.
“My schedule is so full,” she explained. “It was honestly best to take one thing off my plate.”
Growing Confidence Through American Idol
The American Idol experience has helped Howell grow not only as a singer, but as a person.
“It’s given me confidence,” she said. “Auditioning was terrifying. It’s the biggest thing I’ve ever done in my life.”
She added that the experience has even helped her become more comfortable sharing her music on social media—something she once feared.
Sharing the Spotlight With Fellow Alabamians
Howell won’t be the only Alabama talent featured in the February 9 episode. Montgomery artist Trew TheStar, 25, will also audition.
“I got to meet Trew during auditions, and he is the nicest person,” Howell said. “I’m so excited to watch his audition.”
Geneva Plans a Watch Party
To celebrate the big moment, the town of Geneva will host a watch party at The Vintage Room, located at 512 S. Commerce St. Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m., ahead of the two-hour episode.
“It’s an open invite,” Howell said. “Anybody who wants to come is more than welcome.”
A food truck will also be on-site.
“I can’t wait for everybody to come on down,” she added.
Source: montgomeryadvertiser.com