SteelDrivers Song Earns Marybeth Byrd Golden Ticket

The 32-year-old disc jockey works at Mix 106.3 radio station in Armorel, Ark, but is considering switching careers and becoming the next American Idol. In Sunday's episode, with the SteelDrivers' "If It Hadn't Been for Love", the 21-year-old country-pop star auditioned for the judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan.

The reason Byrd attended her audition in Las Vegas could not be better explained than in a pre-recorded clip before the audition. Despite loving my hometown and the people I work with, she feels that to reach the next level; she will need that push. Being in Las Vegas signifies that push.

The judges were all captivated

She looked confident while singing steeldrivers' bluegrass song, adding a touch of "pop flair" to it inside the audition room with a guitarist All three judges were hooked after the first note. Richie and Bryan flailed their arms energetically, unaware that Perry was nervous because of Byrd's raspy and smoke-filled vocals.

She made her 300-person hometown steel community proud with her performances. "Ow ow ow ow," Perry said as Byrd continued to impress viewers. After that, each judge took a turn sharing his or her remarks, with Richie taking the lead. As Richie noted, Byrd also acknowledged her identity in song. Our eyes met, and we both asked, "What's going on?"

The music has a small-town vibe

Bryan added, "People just have it. I'm referring to the first note. You had it," he continued. "Everything about you stands out, from the name to your presentation, from the music to the small-town ambience on the music. I mean, it's authentic." Bryan is optimistic about the future.

Perry emphasized the importance of taking American Idol to all corners of the globe. The three judges gave Byrd three yeses, putting her one step closer to the Season 21 crown. Afterwards, the winner will be crowned and receive a record deal and a cash prize.

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