Worship Leader Takes “Idol” To Church With Powerful Audition, Earns Standing Ovation From Judges

Worship leader Jordan McCollough earns standing ovation on American Idol

Jordan McCullough, a 27-year-old worship leader from Tennessee, earned a standing ovation for his "American Idol" audition. (Photo Credits: ABC / American Idol via YouTube)

Worship Leader Jordan McCullough Amazes American Idol Judges With His Powerful Performance

Worship leader Jordan McCullough made the American Idol audition room feel like a Sunday church service.

27-year-old McCullough, from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, auditioned for Idol‘s 24th season with a powerful rendition of “Goodness of God.” The Christian worship song was originally released by Jenn Johnson and Bethel Music in 2019. That recording earned a Dove Award nomination for Worship Recorded Song of the Year.

Two years later, gospel legend CeCe Winans released a cover of “Goodness of God” on her album Believe For It. Her version also earned a Dove Award nomination.

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As McCullough sang “Goodness of God” on Idol, you could tell he felt each and every lyric in his core. His performance was passionate, and he radiated joy.

That joy transferred to the Idol judges, who had huge smiles plastered on their faces as they listened to his performance. Carrie Underwood was enthusiastically (but silently) singing along.

When McCullough’s soul-stirring performance reached its stunning conclusion, all three Idol judges soared to their feet to give him a well-earned standing ovation.

They also showered him with praise. Luke Bryan told him his voice could fill a room, while Lionel Richie said his stage presence captivated him.

Underwood agreed, telling McCullough, “You have been given an incredible gift.”

To no surprise, every judge voted “yes” for McCullough. He left with a Golden Ticket!

American Idol Fans Praise Jordan McCullough’s Audition

The young worship leader’s audition earned lots of praise from American Idol fans online. Several commenters on YouTube compared him to other beloved singers.

America needs this song right now. I’m crying my eyes out = he’s perfect,” wrote one viewer.

Another fan said, “He reminds me of [American Idol winner] Ruben Studdard. AMAZING Voice ..I believe he will go a long way in this competition.”

He sounds like CeCe mixed with Josh Groban. I like it a lot!” another commenter wrote.

One fan said, “This young man has a true gift from God!

I love that song and I love what he did with that song! It was amazing!” someone else said.

Another viewer wrote, “bro has soul.

Idol will return on February 16 with its last auditions episode. Then, Hollywood Week in Music City starts February 23. That may be the first chance fans will get to see McCullough since his audition!

A second Hollywood Week episode airs on March 2 before the show moves to Hawaii for three episodes.

Stay tuned to see if McCullough makes it there! In the meantime, enjoy his audition in the video below.

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