Teen singer-songwriter Slater Nalley has covered “Over the Rainbow” on the hit American reality singing competition “American Idol.”
Nalley made it his own from the opening note due to his distinct acoustic musical arrangement to it.
It felt like listening to a young Chris Stapleton meets Jason Isbell coupled with the atmospherics of a young Rod Stewart.
Nalley has a gritty, earthy country tone, which is infectious. He is the future of the contemporary country music landscape.
Once again, Nalley proves that he has an old soul, and he even showcased his controlled growl in this performance.
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Idol judge Lionel Richie proclaimed Nalley as a “first-class artist/singer,” and rightfully so. Carrie Underwood was astonished by his soaring rendition, and Luke Bryan expressed that he is “happy for the promise of his career.”
Nalley deserves to make it far in the “American Idol” competition, if not win it. His natural talent and genuine personality are too big to be ignored.
Revisiting his ‘Traces of You’ audition
He auditioned for this show with his moving original composition, “Traces of You,” which was inspired by his high school English teacher Mrs. Davis.
That memorable audition displayed his rich and rumbling baritone voice, and he was able to blow away the three judges, and move the audiences watching at home on an emotional level.
For more information on emerging singer-songwriter Slater Nalley, follow him on Instagram.
Read More: Slater Nalley interview link
