The new batch of American Idol contestants are proving to be extremely talented, especially Odell Bunton Jr., whose soulful voice and story are moving fans to tears.
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Odell was featured as one of the most promising singers during the premiere of Season 22. But before stepping up to the microphone, he shared why he hopes to win this year’s competition.
As he explained in his audition video, he knew he wanted to be a singer when he was only six years old, and he credits his mom for teaching him and his siblings the craft.
Odell’s natural talents helped him excel quickly. He got his first taste of the stage in a church choir, and it wasn’t long before he was leading songs, praise, and worship. By 13, he started pursuing music professionally.
“I knew—I knew—this is all I wanted to do,” he said. “This is it.”
Odell continued working towards his dreams until his oldest daughter was born 11 years ago. At that time, the new dad took a break to be with his family.
“I really just wanted to focus in on being the best father I could possibly be,” he said. “My kids are definitely the most important things in my life right now. And the second most important thing is providing a great future for them.”
As time went on, Odell welcomed four more children with his wife, Shataniqua. So he locked in a stable job as an overnight security guard at the Austin International Airport. But he admitted that it’s hard to earn enough for five kids.
Odell Bunton Jr. Hopes His Voice Will Give His Family a Better Life.
Today, Odell and his family are living in a hotel.
“I never thought I’d be in a situation like this,” he said through tears. “Holding my head up, keeping it up, has been one of the toughest things I’ve ever experienced in my life.”
Odell Bunton Jr. hopes his chance on American Idol will help him give his family a more stable life.
“I want better for them,” he shared. “They deserve it because they’re amazing kids. They encourage me.”
Before Odell showed his talents, he admitted that the opportunity to audition “means everything.”
Odell wowed judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie with a powerful rendition of Bring It On Home to Me by Sam Cooke and earned a golden ticket to Hollywood.
“I was not expecting all of that,” Lionel said after Odell’s performance. “… But that was real tight old-school.”
Katy jumped in and said Odell is the best soul singer of the season, and the other two wholeheartedly agreed.
We’re looking forward to watching Odell Bunton Jr.’s story unfold on Season 22 of American Idol. You can watch him shine every Sunday on ABC at 8 PM ET.
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here.
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