'American Idol' Season 18: Arthur Gunn channels Bob Marley with 'Is This Love', enchants judges and audience
The latest episode of 'American Idol' just premiered on Sunday night on the ABC network, and it's now down to the final 21 contestants. The judges were hard-pressed to make a choice on whom to cut, considering so many great contestants were stepping up their game this year. One of the contenders for the crown is Dibesh Pokharel aka Arthur Gunn, the raspy-voiced singing sensation from Wichita, Kansas.
The young Nepali whose name means "light" grew up loving bluegrass and country music after moving to the States. He is a humble and gifted performer, blessed with a soulful, gritty voice that tugs on your heartstrings.
The judges had been wowed by Arthur Gunn from his very first audition and realized he was one to watch out for. He chose to do 'Girl From The North Country' and 'Have You Ever Seen The Rain' with his epic sandpaper vocals, delivered with gusto over his nimble guitar work. His sublime rearrangement of the latter Creedence Clearwater Revival hit also stood out later in Hollywood Week, and the judges knew they were looking at a potential Top 5 singer.
His easygoing, laidback persona and powdery voice had the judges compare him to Bob Marley - "he has a pure soul," said Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie nodded in agreement.
For his performance in Aulani, Hawaii, Arthur chose to embrace one of his singing idols, and sang an amazing version of Bob Marley's classic 'Is This Love'. Although his singing talent has never been in question - he probably has the best vocal flavor out of all the remaining contestants - the shy Arthur reverted back to a mannerism that the judges had noticed back at his very first audition - he tended to close his eyes while singing and found it hard to look at his audience in the eyes, probably due to a touch of nerves.
While that lack of connection could spell doom for most contestants, at least for Arthur, his spectacular voice would always see him get through unscathed.
"You are probably one of our most unique contestants," said Lionel Richie to a surprised Arthur later on - the singer was still trying to come to grips with his ongoing roller coaster ride to stardom. "You opened your mouth and you had an instant identity," continued a beaming Richie. After encouraging him to maintain eye contact and a rapport with his audience, the judges had no hesitation in putting Arthur through to the Top 20, and for good reason - he's probably one of the best 'Idol' contenders we've ever heard.
The fans certainly agree - "Arthur Gunn is going to be huge! This guy is so talented" crowed one ecstatic fan. An ardent admirer said, "Arthur Gunn can literally have my heart" while another fan said, "I get goosebumps every time Arthur sings." Most people seem to think he can win - "When I heard him audition I said he is the American Idol. Plus he sang a lucky song.
Good luck Arthur Gunn! America loved you. You are a talented shining star. Do whatever you want with your wonderful eyes," gushed a diehard follower. Looks like Arthur Gunn has this competition sewed up already, but there's plenty more twists and turns to come.
Tune in next Sunday night at 8 pm ET on the ABC network to find out what happens next on 'American Idol'.
