Emmy Russell became emotional after her successful "American Idol" audition.
The granddaughter of country music legend Loretta Lynn surprised Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan when she revealed her family tree during the auditions. Although she knows how Lynn remains one of the most prominent country singers in history, she shared that the "Coal Miner's Daughter" singer is just her grandmother to her.
Emmy Russell Expresses Gratitude Following the Public's Support
As she began her "American Idol" journey, Russell took to Instagram to express her gratitude to everyone who supported her during her auditions.
"Hey, y'all, I just wanted to get on here and say a big thank you this morning," she said. "I've just been, like, flooded with tears how like grateful I am. And honestly, really how humbled."
She continued, "A lot of gratitude this morning and thank you for every person that's been so supportive about my American Idol audition and commenting and sharing it, and I'm trying to get back to everybody. It's gonna take me some time. I have so many thoughts. But I wanted to get on here and just have a video of gratitude. So, thank you."
The talent competition show hinted at her participation a week before the episode aired. It showed a young woman in a green hoodie telling the judges that her grandmother is a country singer.
From there, she surprised everyone not only with her relationship with Lynn but also with her talent.
She is the daughter of Lynn's daughter, Patsy. She previously marked her Grand Ole Opry debut in April 2023, where she performed a song called "Memaw's Guitar."
After Lynn's death, Russell performed "Lay Me Down" with Lukas Nelson during the tribute special for the country icon.
READ ALSO: Loretta Lynn's Death Unexpected? Country Singer Still Did THIS Weeks Before Passing
What Happened During Her "American Idol" Audition?
Russell revealed to the "American Idol" judges how she struggles to create her own identity in the music industry. By joining the show's Season 22, she successfully pushed herself out of her comfort zone.
"I think I am a little timid, and I think it is because I want to own my voice," she added. "That's why I want to challenge myself and come out here."
She performed her original song, "Skinny," which is about eating disorders.
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Loretta Lynn Dead: Country Icon Left THIS Advice to Lee Ann Womack Before Passing
