As his country music star was soaring last year, Jelly Roll still found time to make a cameo on American Idol. The “Need a Favor” singer, 40, appeared as a guest mentor during season 22. His earnest advice and genuine connections with the contestants had fans immediately calling for Idol to make his role permanent. Taking the hint, the showrunners decided to bring him on during season 23 as the ABC show’s first-ever “artist-in-residence.” But what does that mean, exactly?
Videos by American Songwriter
Jelly Roll Never Wants to Leave ‘American Idol’
Recently appearing alongside fellow country singer-songwriter ERNEST on the Bussin’ With the Boys podcast, Jelly Roll took some time to “shamelessly promote” his custom role on American Idol.
“It is unbelievable…I got this gig the coolest way you can get it too,” declared the “Son of a Sinner” crooner.
He continued, “I had been a fan of the show, so I was always tuned in, sung at a couple of the finales and I was there for the Iam Tongi season, and so that’s how I got the mentorship job was just being a fan. And I did so good they called and was like, ‘I know this sounds crazy, but we want to create a position where you do that the whole season.’”
“There Is So Much Fire”
The show’s 23rd season premiered March 9, with American Idol alum Carrie Underwood replacing Katy Perry at the judges’ table. The country superstar joins longtime judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, who came aboard when Idol moved to ABC in 2018.
Don’t expect to see Jelly Roll on your screen when American Idol returns Sunday, March 16, however. The Grammy nominee won’t enter the picture until the judges have chosen the best 48 contestants.
“So I’m going to mentor from 50 to whoever wins this thing,” Jelly said.
While we’re still several months out from learning the identity of this year’s winner, the “Liar” hitmaker promises “so much fire” this season.
“Dude, there is so much fire,” Jelly said. “There is so many just heart-wrenching stores. There’s so many fun stories and happy stories, so many great voices — never seen a wider range of talent on American Idol.”
Idol airs Sundays at 8 p.m. Eastern on ABC.
Featured image by Amy Sussman/Getty Images for FIREAID
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.