Backstreet Boys Star's Son Brings American Idol Judges to Tears with Emotional Tribute

Baylee Littrell is showing off his larger-than-life talent.

22-year-old Brian Littrell’s son performed an emotionally stirring original song during the American Idol auditions, leaving Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie (and his father, plus other American Idol aspirants) teary-eyed.

In the March 31st episode of the competition series, Baylee performed his own composition, “Hey Jesus,” and chose to dedicate it to his deceased grandmother named Shirley.

Originally, I composed this tune during a particularly challenging period of my life, as I had tragically lost someone dear to me. This person was none other than my beloved grandmother, who played an irreplaceable role in my life. When my father was touring, she would often fill the void and comprehended me in ways few others ever could. Regrettably, my grandmother passed away three years ago.

Baylee expressed through tears, “I believed she’d be here for instances like these. I hadn’t anticipated losing her. Therefore, when I did, I doubted everything. I distanced myself from faith, thinking I wouldn’t regain it again. But this song seemed to guide me back to it.

As Baylee played his guitar during the show, audience members rose from their seats and dabbed away tears. At a certain moment, the camera switched to his parents Leighanne Littrell and Brian, who were seated next to American Idol host Ryan Seacrest, both singing along with tears streaming down their faces.

At the judges table, Carrie was visibly emotional as she praised the performance.

Baylee, your talent and sincerity truly shine,” she remarked, with Luke and Lionel echoing the sentiment. “You’re incredibly gifted.

Additionally, Baylee enjoys the backing of his father, who’s been successful in the boyband scene for more than twenty years. Yet, this budding artist is eager to pave his unique way forward.

Speaking before his performance, he noted that having family in the music industry can provide numerous opportunities, but it can also lead to a great deal of conflict. His main aim, however, is to establish himself independently.

During the season 23 premier on March 10, I left the judges in awe with my audition performance, which was even more special because my dad joined me on stage. Together, we sang an original piece, taking the opportunity to acknowledge my father as the source of my gift and talent.

Baylee expressed that he thinks his singing talent comes from his father, and he hopes to honor him well today. Essentially, music is something that has been passed down through generations in their family, but when it comes to dance moves, it seems that particular trait didn’t get inherited genetically.

Baylee stated, “Walking in my father’s shoes is intimidating since I consider his music career to be among the most remarkable in history. No one could possibly match up.

Keep reading for more celebrity kids who shined on American Idol…

Born to the legendary Major League Baseball star Ozzie Smith, Nikko showcased his talent in season 4 of “American Idol”, performing Stevie Wonder’s hit song, “All I Do.

Nikko made it to the top nine before he was eliminated.

Jordin, the daughter of retired New York Giants player Phillippi Sparks, took part in season 6 of American Idol. During her audition held in Seattle, Washington, she sang Celine Dion’s “Because You Love Me.

She got affirmative responses from Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson, which ultimately led her to victory that season.

Since 2007, the singer of “Battlefield” has released multiple chart-topping songs and garnered a Grammy nomination in 2009 for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for her duet with Chris Brown titled “No Air.” Additionally, she received another Grammy nomination in 2024 for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song, collaborating with For King & Country on the track “Love Me Like I Am.

In season 10, Lara, the daughter of Tom Johnston from The Doobie Brothers, performed Stevie Wonder’s “All I Do” during an audition held in San Francisco, California.

She made it to the Hollywood round and was eliminated.

Actress Jane, the daughter of comedian Jim Carrey, participated as a contestant during season 11, performing Bonnie Raitt’s song “Something to Talk About” in San Diego, California.

Jane made it to the first round of Hollywood week before being eliminated.

Shannon, the daughter of the former St. Louis Cardinals player Joe Magrane, was a contestant in season 11 of the competition series. She sang a cover of Etta James’ “Something’s Got a Hold on Me,” and all three judges gave her a resounding yes.

Shannon secured a spot in the top 11 before she was sent home.

Gianna, who is the daughter of renowned ’80s pop artist Brenda K. Starr, tried out for season 15 of the show. She sang her mother’s famous tune “I Still Believe,” and left the judges amazed by her performance.

The New Jersey contestant finished with a place in the top ten.

Amelia, who is the child of pianist and “Great Balls of Fire” composer Jack Hammer, appeared as a contestant in season 16 of American Idol. During her audition in Savannah, Georgia, she sang “Gimme Shelter” by The Rolling Stones. All three judges, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, approved her performance with a yes.

She secured a spot in the top 24 before being eliminated.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’m excited to share that I, Claudia Conway (daughter of the renowned political figures Kellyanne and George Conway), had the opportunity to audition for season 19 of a popular television show. While my parents were previously associated with the White House, I am eager to explore new avenues and express myself in this exciting venture!

On November 16th, Katy shared an Instagram post, expressing excitement as she revealed, “Alright, alright, alright, it’s showtime since Claudia has given American Idol a try!

The influencer performed “When We Were Young” by Adele and “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna during their audition, earning a rejection from Luke but approval from both Katy and Lionel. However, despite making it to the Hollywood round, Claudia was ultimately eliminated.

Ava, daughter of Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, showcased her talent during season 20 by performing Stevie Wonder’s “Lately.” Her captivating audition left the three judges impressed, resulting in her advancement to the Hollywood round.

She advanced to the final 14, performing “Sign of the Times” by Harry Styles, yet unfortunately, her performance didn’t secure her a spot in the contest any longer.

Additionally in season 20, Leah – daughter of Honeymoon Suite guitarist Derry Grehan – will also be participating. She sang “Steal My Girl” by One Direction during her audition in Nashville, which earned her a place in the following round.

She advanced as a finalist during the season, performing “Cover Me” by Bruce Springsteen and an original tune titled “Flowers,” ultimately getting eliminated.

In a different rendition: Lyric Mederios, the child of singer Glenn Mederios, showcased her talent during season 21 in Nashville by singing “Love Me Like You Mean It” originally by Kelsea Ballerini. Yet, Katy Perry requested a more demanding piece, and so Lyric sang “Before He Cheats,” which was made famous by Carrie Underwood.

Luke cast a ‘no’ vote, whereas Katy and Lionel advanced Luke past that stage. However, Lyric didn’t make it much further in the Hollywood round and was subsequently eliminated.

Juan Pablo, who graduated from college as a Bachelor alum, shared that his daughter Camila attempted to make it on season 22 of American Idol by performing Joaquina’s “Rabia.” Before she began singing, however, Juan expressed some apprehension about exposing his daughter to the public spotlight.

When the chance arose, he said, ‘She was keen, but I wondered if she was too young.’ That was a year ago. I suggested, ‘Perhaps next time.’ Now, look at her! So, let’s wait and see what happens.

Lionel didn’t approve when it was her turn, but Katy and Luke chose to advance her to the following stage. Nevertheless, she ended up being eliminated during Hollywood Week.

In the tradition of her well-known country music grandmother, Loretta Lynn, Emmy showcased an original song titled “Skinny” during season 22 auditions. The performance revealed her personal struggles with eating disorders. Lionel, Katy, and Luke were all taken aback to discover that she was related to the legendary artist.

Backstage, Patsy Lynn Russell, who is part of the country duo The Lynns alongside her twin sister Peggy Lynn, reunited with her mother.

Patsy stated that her daughter chose to audition for American Idol purely with honest intentions. She believes that growing up in a musical family can cast a large shadow, causing one to wonder, “How do I match up to them?” However, the truth is, you don’t try to fill their shoes; instead, you create your own path and make your own mark.

Katy admired the show tremendously, complimenting her: “You’re an exceptional songwriter, just like your grandma. You have that innate talent.”

Emmy reached the Top 5 as a contestant in season 22, but unfortunately, she didn’t take home the title of the winner for that season.

On the 9th of March, Baylee tried out for the competition show. During this audition, he showcased his talent before a fresh judge, Carrie Underwood, and familiar judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. He played an original composition of his, and his father, formerly of the Backstreet Boys (specifically Brian Littrell), accompanied him on stage to harmonize during the chorus.

All three judges voted yes for Baylee, advancing him into the next round of season 23.

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2025-04-01 21:18

Backstreet Boys Star’s Son Brings American Idol Judges to Tears with Emotional Tribute

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