Why Leah Singing 'Firework' With Katy Showed Essence Of American Idol
On the American Idol season 20 finale, third place finalist Leah Marlene sang a duet of Katy Perry's hit song «Firework» with the judge herself, which suited the spirit of the show to perfection. Leah, a 20-year-old musician from Normal, Illinois, grew up around music thanks to her father, Derry Grehan. He is the lead guitarist of the Canadian rock band, Honeymoon Suite. Her talent and artistry are evident in every song that she sings.
In April 2011, when Leah was nine-years-old, she sang an acoustic version of «Firework» in a talent show, while playing the guitar. She was accompanied by her father, who played the guitar. Fast-forward eleven years later, to the American Idol stage, where the video of nine-year-old Leah singing the first lines of the song played on a giant screen. In a full circle moment, the camera then panned to Leah the American Idol finalist, who took over the melody live on stage, with her dad once again playing the guitar. Katy then joined Leah for an emotional and inspiring duet of the song, featuring soaring vocals and incredible harmonies.
Related: American Idol: All About The Top 7 Finalists’ Singles
This performance showcased the essence of American Idol. At Leah's audition, in her bucket hat and patchwork clothing, she was a quirky and talented musician. However, throughout the competition, she transformed into an authentic artist. Watching Leah as a child on screen reminded the audience of how she blossomed throughout the season. She even wrote and released her own single, «Flowers,» a song about how people can find their way out of the most difficult times. It is always exciting when the judges duet with the contestants during the American Idol finale, but this particular performance really
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