Hannah Harper’s rendition of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” captured attention immediately, drawing viewers far beyond the usual American Idol audience. Fans tuned in out of curiosity—and stayed because they couldn’t look away.
What set Hannah apart was how she made the song her own without losing its soul. Her voice carried quiet strength, and instead of imitating Dolly, she leaned into her own tone and storytelling. Viewers praised her for honoring the original while sounding unmistakably like herself. Comments ranged from “chills” to “replayed it immediately,” and some admitted they weren’t fans before—but are now.
The performance also spread quickly online. Viewers tagged friends with messages like, “You have to hear this,” making it a must-watch moment rather than just another cover.
But Hannah’s music isn’t just about performance—it’s personal. In a sneak peek of Season 24 of American Idol, the Missouri-based mom of three opened up to judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood about her struggles with postpartum depression.
“I have three little boys. After I had my youngest, I had postpartum depression,” she shared. “I remember being on the couch. They were all crying at the same time.” Carrie Underwood called Hannah’s original song “String Cheese” “the most relatable song I’ve ever heard,” wiping away tears.
Three Things to Know About Hannah Harper
1. She’s Shared Her Story Before
Last May, Hannah announced “String Cheese” on Instagram—the same song she performed at her Idol audition. She described feeling overwhelmed by daily life but finding purpose in motherhood:
“I sat on the couch and threw myself a pity party, but then the Lord reminded me of my purpose here on earth as my baby crawled into my lap. This is my ministry.”
2. She Frequently Posts About Her Music
Her Instagram is filled with covers of artists like The Isaacs, Alison Krauss, Trace Adkins, and Carole King, along with original songs about everyday life, from messy but love-filled homes to her grandmother’s battle with dementia.
3. She Wasn’t Always Sure About a Solo Career
Although she’s been playing music with family for years, Hannah only recently pursued a solo career. “And boy, let me tell you… This is ground I never imagined myself standing on,” she said. “But when He opened the door, I ran through it, and I can’t wait to see where this journey leads.”
Hannah Harper is turning personal struggles into music that resonates, proving her talent, honesty, and faith are winning hearts on American Idol.
American Idol airs Mondays on ABC.