'American Idol' Season 18 Episode 4: Danny La Rota croons Lorde's 'Royals', floors judges with strong vocals
Alabama native Danny La Rota has floored the judges with his impressive vocal ability and highly authentic take on 'Royals', a popular hit by New Zealand singer Lorde.
In Episode 4, the dental student from Birmingham proved that he knows the benefits of opening his mouth nice and wide. He's got pipes that can rival the best rockstars in the business today, whether it be Justin Hawkins or Robert Plant.
Effortlessly crooning through the song or hitting some extreme high notes that very few people would even dare to attempt, Danny's royal treatment of Lorde's song certainly floored the judges. His original arrangement got him big props from the panel, who are always looking out for something that sets contestants apart from everybody else.
Katy Perry said he was the most original contestant that they had seen in new season so far. Luke Bryan offered some constructive feedback, asking him to establish more eye contact with his audience, before saying he was the most vintage, old-school-sounding contestant he'd heard in a long while. Similarly, Lionel Richie was floored by his Led Zeppelin-like rock star vocals and was particularly impressed by his range, and ability to maintain phenomenal control over the high notes, as well as notes in his lower register.
On the basis of such a strong audition, Danny easily got through to the Hollywood round and fans certainly agreed with the judges on his voice. "Somethin about those Bama boys. So soulful! I really like Danny's vibe. Awesome audition!" exclaimed one fan.
"Fabulous. Loved it. I knew he was ALL MAN WITH FABULOUS HAIR from the start. ALL MAN. Some people have no clue," went another viewer who was clearly vibing hard to Danny's performance. We can't wait to see what he pulls out in Hollywood.