‘American Idol’ Alum Pay Tribute to Late Contestant Mandisa Tribute

The latest episode of American Idol was an eventful one, as the top seven contestants were identified, America waved goodbye to one hopeful, and a musical tribute was paid to the late Idol alum, Mandisa.

Monday night was the Judge’s Song round of Idol’s 22nd season, a game within a game that saw the Top 8 perform one of three songs secretly selected by Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie.

Will Moseley covered Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues,” Kaibrienne sang “Traitor” by Olivia Rodrigo, McKenna Faith Breinholt hit Lissie’s “Everywhere I Go,” Jack Blocker belted out “Always On My Mind,” Abi Carter tackled “Bring Me To Life,” Julia Gagnon went with “Over The Rainbow,” Triston Harper impressed with Morgan Wallen’s “Sand In My Boots” and Emmy Russell performed Loretta Lynn’s signature song, “Coal Miners Daughter.”

Just to add some spice, America voted live for the Top 6, and the judges made a save for the Top 7. When the votes were tallied, Kaibrienne was eliminated.

As previously reported, the special two-hour episode also welcomed back three American Idol alumni to pay homage to late season five star Mandisa.

Melinda Doolittle (season six), Danny Gokey (season eight) and Colton Dixon (season 11) came together to sing one of Mandisa’s favorite songs, “Shackles” by gospel duo Mary Mary.

The 47-year-old Grammy-winning Christian contemporary singer was found dead of as-yet-undisclosed causes in her home earlier this month.

“Mandisa was an adored icon on American Idol and in the music industry,” read a statement from the show. “She had become a platinum-selling artist and had won [a Grammy] for her music. Her passing has left everyone on the show heartbroken, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family.”

Watch the performance below.