With a brilliant audition for “American Idol” this week, the granddaughter of country music icon Loretta Lynn took a step toward her dream of becoming a music star.
Emmy Russell, 24, stunned judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie with her performance of “Skinny” in Sunday’s episode of ‘American Idol’.
Russell appeared nervous when she first introduced herself to the judges, but as she talked about her famous relative, she started to open up.
“She’s one of the biggest country music singers of all time, but to me she’s just Grandma,” she said in an interview clip.
“I think I am a little timid, and I think it is because I want to own my voice,” added Russell. “That’s why I want to challenge myself and come out here.”
“You’re an A+ songwriter. So was your grandma. You got the gift,” said Perry. “I don’t think you need to compare yourself to what Grandma was. You’re totally different. You shouldn’t give yourself all that pressure.”
Emmy won over all three judges.
Watch Emmy’s performance below:
Credit: People, Huffington Post, ABC