Watch formerly homeless Sir Blayke advance on ‘American Idol’ with moving performance
After struggling with confidence all season long, Illinois resident Sir Blayke has a chance to find more of it in the top 24 of “American Idol.”
“I made myself so small for years,” the formerly homeless singer-songwriter said through tears before his Showstopper round performance during the April 4 episode. “Never treat yourself how I treated myself because nobody deserves to feel that way.”
Blayke, who has been steadily improving each week after initially performing an original song for the judges, chose Pink Sweat$’ “Honesty” to sing for an audience and with a band for the first time.
The audience and judges, entranced by Blayke’s haunting and soulful rendition of the R&B ballad, let out cheers during the song.
“He didn’t overdo it,” the judges said at the close of the 28-year-old’s moving performance.
The Chicago native told the judges this round “awakened” confidence inside him.
“I can really do this,” he said.
Still, judge Katy Perry said she wanted to see Blayke’s confidence grow further.
“You have a big personality and really beautiful voice,” Perry said. “But I haven’t found the confidence there yet.”
Blayke nodded as Perry continued.
“Unfortunately we are eliminating you from the top 59,” she said. “And putting you in the top 24.”
With that, Blayke immediately teared up, covering his face in shock.
“We know you are going to find 100% of your confidence the next time you take the stage,” Perry said.
The April 10 “Idol” episode allows viewers at home to vote for their favorite contestants for the first time.
