Who is Paul Russell? 'American Idol' Season 22 fans troll, claiming they've 'never heard' of rapper set to perform
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA: Singer and rapper Paul Russell is set to appear in the upcoming episode of 'American Idol' Season 22 as a guest performer. Paul has recently become an internet sensation and achieved multiple milestones in his singing career. However, ABC show fans were a bit disappointed with Paul's appearance and claimed that they had never heard of the rapper.
Paul grew up in Atlanta, Georgia before his family moved to Allen, Texas. He graduated in 2019 with a degree in Labor Relations from Ivy League school Cornell University. According to reports, Paul worked with the Partnership for Public Good while pursuing his college degree.
Paul has also contributed to a project for 'community-oriented policing locally with the Buffalo Police Department' with the organization. After completing his studies, Paul worked as a business analyst and corporate advertiser. He later shifted his focus to singing and made his solo debut with his song, 'Once in a Dry Season' in 2019.
The musician has come far in his journey and recently visited the White House. Despite the success, Paul is still unknown to multiple ABC show viewers who took to the comment section of his performance announcement section to troll him. A social media user commented, "I would rather have past idols as guest performers. It makes sense for the show to promote them and help their success. I have no idea who this man is."
Another Instagram user penned, "Who’s Paul Russell." Another internet user wrote, "Never heard of him." Another social media user claimed, "Who is he?" Another viewer stated, "I don't even know who he is."
View this post on Instagram
Paul Russell became an internet sensation with a viral TikTok video
'American Idol' guest performer Paul Russell has been in the music industry for several years, but he became an internet sensation during the summer of 2023 after the release of his latest single 'Lil Boo Thang,' which samples 'The Best of My Love' by The Emotions. The musician released the song in August 2023, and it became an instant hit on TikTok.
Paul's multiple TikTok videos went viral hitting at least a million views. He also made his 'Jingle Ball' debut when he performed at the 2023 iHeartRadio holiday special in 2023. The singer has entertained his fans with his annual holiday concert. He had also joined Teddy Swims on his tour. Additionally, Paul had made it to the Top 100 artists on Billboard.
Who will join Paul Russell in 'American Idol' Season 22?
Rapper and singer Paul Russell is not the only artist who will perform during the upcoming 3-hour-long episode of 'American Idol' Season 22. Alongside Paul, Teddy Swims and Lauren Spencer Smith are also expected to grace the ABC show stage with their stirring guest performances.
During the star-studded episode, the top 20 artists will be revealed with the elimination of four aspiring singers. However, the Top 20 contestants will perform for America's vote and give their best to impress the judges, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.
'American Idol' Season 22 airs on Sundays and Mondays at 8 pm ET on ABC.