'American Idol' Season 18 Episode 5: Music teacher Franklin Boone's soulful singing has fans loving his style
With quite a few young hopefuls already on their way to Hollywood, there is now just a handful of spots left up for grabs in the new season of 'American Idol'. Music teacher Franklin Boone from North Carolina was one of the talented young singers who turned up for the audition and he really left a lasting impression on the judges.
The 27-year-old artist, who walked in with dreadlocks and a guitar, certainly possessed plenty of charisma and poise. When the judges found out that he taught a music class at the School of Rock, they were already pumped to see what he could do. And Franklin did not disappoint. He sang an amazing version of 'Dreams' by Fleetwood Mac that had the judges hanging on to his every word.
His beautiful, husky voice and guitar skills worked really well together and his original arrangement of the song was truly captivating.
After hearing his soulful, bluesy rendition, the judges broke out applause. Luke Bryan told Franklin that the very first pitch-perfect note he hit was already telling him a story. "I just see recording artiste and so much artistry in you," said an impressed Bryan.
A fangirling Katy Perry told Boone that he could easily show his music students the path to stardom and lead by example. She also told the young music teacher that he could definitely win the singing competition if he wanted to because he possessed that much raw talent. A thoroughly impressed Lionel Richie echoed her words, telling Franklin that he had brought his own unique style to 'American Idol' — "vocally, in your look and in your attitude, all in one package".
Recognizing that it was finally Franklin's moment to shine on one of the biggest stages, the judges did not hesitate in putting him through to the Hollywood round.
The fans on social media wasted no time in saying that he is one artist to watch out for in this year's competition.
One fan said, "Franklin Boone, guaranteed top 5" while another viewer chimed in, "Franklin Boone is pretty darn unique." Another bigtime fan gushed, "His voice is weathered, it has this rock edge but also has this soul. He’s super old school and has an amazing style and he’s just the total artiste. He can go very far. I don’t know anyone that has his voice in the industry. Wow!"
We totally agree and can't wait to see what Franklin will do in the Hollywood rounds.
