'American Idol' Season 18 Episode 5: Robert Taylor's soulful voice has judges calling him 'incredible'
The new season of 'American Idol' (in its third year on ABC) continued with the auditions round and there were quite a few exciting contestants who made their mark. Episode 5 showcased the talents of Robert Taylor, a talented young black man from Louisiana who worked as a door-to-door salesman.
The 27-year-old singer had quite an emotional backstory and confessed that he was "terrified" when he came to audition. After being reassured by Katy Perry that this was his moment to live his truth, Robert calmed down and proceeded to show America what he had come here to do.
He recently lost his father and had come out as openly gay in the past year. So his pain and heartbreak clearly translated through his heartfelt rendition of Lewis Capaldi's 'Bruises'. Robert's father had been a source of inspiration and encouragement to the young man. So when his dad passed away in January, Robert knew that he had to come to audition for 'American Idol' and make his father proud. "Hopefully you guys can feel my heart and my soul," said Taylor, on the verge of breaking down while telling the judges his backstory.
Possessing nimble piano skills and a lovely voice that enabled him to move through his high register with effortless ease, Robert's incredible voice and falsetto vocals thoroughly impressed the judges.
Once he was done all three judges applauded for him, with a thrilled Katy Perry telling him, "Never ever be scared to do that." Luke Bryan said he was really good and Lionel Richie was equally moved by his audition too, telling Taylor that his voice was "absolutely incredible".
Richie commented on the fact that although the tearful Robert seemed a bit shy and timid at first, as soon as he sat down at that piano, the true artiste came out. The judges had no hesitation in putting him through to the Hollywood round.
America certainly agreed with the judges, with social media buzzing about his amazing pipes.
One fan commented, "It’s official: we gotta protect Robert Taylor at all cost because he’s the most precious human to ever exist and I love him we gotta make sure this man KNOWS he’s loved."
Another viewer loved his iconic sense of fashion and compared him to another 'Idol' alumnus, Adam Lambert. "Hey @adamlambert, he’s Robert Taylor — great voice and great taste in clothes!" We can't wait to see what Hollywood brings for this brave, talented young man.
