Fan-favorite American Idol contestants Willie Spence and Grace Kinstler reprised one of country music’s most iconic duets during The Great Idol Reunion on Monday.
The two singers performed a cover of “Rather Be,” a track by Clean Bandit featuring Jess Glynne.
Spence kicked off their show-stopping duet as he sang the first verse of the popular tune before Kinstler joined him on stage. Together, the pair put their powerhouse vocals on full display while working the massive stage, surrounded by an impressive production.
Following their soaring performance, Idol judges Lionel Richie and Katy Perry praised their vocal talents and growth as artists.
“I feel like a proud mom,” Perry gushed. “You know when they say ‘oh they’ve change since they become famous and stuff.’ Well, you have and you’ve changed in all the right ways.”
“Fabulous, welcome home!” Richie exclaimed.
Host Ryan Seacrest then joined the Idol alums on stage to discuss what they’ve been up to lately.
Kinstler revealed that she has been working with Alessia Cara’s team, after she previously joined Cara for a duet during the Idol finale in 2021.
“Yeah, I’ve been working with her team on new music and my first single since the show this past Friday, it’s called ‘Breaking Myself,” Kinstler shared. She also moved to Los Angeles and has begun working on her debut album, which honors her late father, who died unexpectedly in February 2020, according to Mass Live.
Spence recently performed The National Anthem in the U.K. after receiving an invitation from Queen Elizabeth.
“I couldn’t believe it and to be able to go out of the country… I’ve never been out of the country before,” Spence said. Spence released his debut EP titled, The Voice along with follow-up single, “Never Be Alone” in April 2021.
“The queen watches American Idol?” Perry shouted in shock.
Kinstler and Spence, who were both contestants on season 19, previously performed FINNEAS’ song, “What They’ll Say About Us” on the show.
The Great Idol Reunion featured a series of duets, where former Idol winners and contestants paired up with fellow Idol alum for one-of-a-kind collaborations.
In addition to Spence and Kinstler, Laci Kaye Booth, Laine Hardy, Jordin Sparks, Ruben Studdard, Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, David Cook, Kris Allen, Maddie Poppe, Caleb Lee Hutchinson, David Archuleta, William Hung, and Justin Guarini also returned to the Idol stage for performances during the show.
Former Idol judges Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson also made special appearances during the special.
American Idol airs every Sunday and Monday at 8/7c on ABC.
