It all came down to Drake McCain and Cecil Ray on Monday’s episode of American Idol, with the two contestants vying for the final spot in the Top 24 during the Showstopper/ Final Judgement Round.
McCain took a risk and chose to sing Luke Bryan’s 2011 hit “Country Girl (Shake It For Me)” as Bryan watched on from the judges’ panel. His energy-filled performance had the country superstar up out of his chair dancing and singing along while Katy Perry nodded her head to the music.
McCain earned a standing ovation as Bryan exclaimed, “Finally, it’s about time some endorphins got firin’ here!”
Cecil Ray took the stage to perform Leon Bridges’ “Beyond” and thoroughly impressed the judges, who sprung to their feet clapping and cheering following his performance.
At the end, however, only one contestant could make it through to the next round.
“Drake you’ve been down this road before to come back and tangibly see the growth is really special,” Bryan told him before delivering the unfortunate news. “Drake, you are not in our Top 24. We love you buddy. You’re worthy of being here.”
“Let this be the fuel to your fire,” Perry told him.
“Cecil, we see very, very interesting things in you and we’re gonna give you this shot,” Bryan revealed. “You’re in the Top 24.”
Click above to watch Drake McCain and Cecil Ray’s American Idol performances.
Idol returns to ABC next Sunday and Monday at 8/7 c for the celebrity duets round.
