Will Jayna Elise win 'American Idol' Season 22? Fans hope 'she makes it this time' as past contestant returns for redemption

Jayna Elise gets a second shot with her distinctive interpretation of 'The Climb' in 'American Idol' Season 22
Jayna Elise wins hearts with her 'American Idol' Season 22 audition (@ABC)
Jayna Elise wins hearts with her 'American Idol' Season 22 audition (@ABC)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Jayna Elise went to Hollywood last season. Notably, Jayna performed an impromptu duet with participant Fire Wilmore when her partner left unexpectedly.

Jayna returns a year later, eager to "give it another shot." The 22-year-old artist from Washington, DC now has a shorter 'do and has removed the cap she was hiding behind during her previous appearance in 'American Idol' Season 21.



 

Jayna said she wants to shine this year and reach the top. She sang Miley Cyrus' "The Climb" during her Season 22 audition, and 'American Idol' fans believe they have discovered their winner, and hope she makes it all the way through.

On Youtube, a fan wrote, "Just watched this audition. It was mind blowlingly good. The best I have heard this season so far. She has a phenomenal voice." A second user further wrote, "returning for a 2nd chance, picking a Big song, flowing into the melody with emotion and intent. It's like she jumped off the cliff and sailed. Loved the church stops and then she pulled out the long-held notes. Amazing! Very well crafted arrangement."

One person also commented, "She absolutely killed this song I still got chills." A fourth person added, "CHILLS! So happy she came back ... deserved to go far last season so hope she makes it this time!!!" 

On X, a fan claimed, "The only good person so far tonight has been Jayna the rest of these ppl should’ve been a no!" Another person chimed in, "Wow, That was an incredible performance by jayna elise, She sounded amazing during the auditions this week."



 



 

Jayna Elise owes it to 'American Idol' judge Katy Perry

Jayna, more confident than ever, expressed gratitude to Katy Perry for her past criticism, which helped her develop into the singer she is today. Jayna broke into her unique interpretation of Miley's "The Climb," displaying a buttery voice and amazing range that brought the judges to their feet for a standing ovation.

"You have really grown in a short amount of time, vocally," Katy said. "And if you can use that kind of gear every time you sing, it's going to be a different type of competition for you this time."

Lionel Richie announced that she will return to Hollywood "stronger than ever."

Like in the previous season, all three judges gave her their vote of confidence, advancing her to Hollywood Week.

Jayna Elise thanks Katy Perry for her past criticism on 'American Idol' Season 21 (ABC)
Jayna Elise thanks Katy Perry for her past criticism on 'American Idol' Season 21 (@ABC)

Who is Jayna Elise on 'American Idol' Season 22?

On September 26, 2001, Tetia Lanae Brown gave birth to Jayna Elise Brown. Her home state is Maryland.

Jayna began acting when she was just four years old. Jayna has demonstrated her abilities in music, dance, and acting and is well-versed in the performing arts.

She picked up the piano fast, and her artistic side started to show early on. Jayna has studied acting, singing, dancing, and piano.

Jayna appreciates the value of education despite her busy schedule and maintains a 4.0 in every subject she takes. Her friends and family are very supportive of her, and she genuinely enjoys what she does.

Jayne's mother is a single parent. Jayna and her mother relocated to Atlanta, but lost their home.

They were "in between houses" when she first auditioned for Season 21, staying with a neighbor.

Jayna Elise returned to 'American Idol' after appearing on Season 21 (ABC/EricMcCandless)
Jayna Elise returned to 'American Idol' after appearing on Season 21 (@ABC/EricMcCandless)

Was Jayna Elise on 'AGT'?

Jayna Brown was the first artist to compete in both the Quarter Final and Semi-Final of 'America's Got Talent' Season 11. She was the final Golden Buzzer winner for Season 11.

In 2014, she was a member of the children's music ensemble KIDZ BOP.

Jayna Elise received a Golden Buzzer from Louis Tomlinson in 'AGT' Season 11 (NBC)
Jayna Elise received a Golden Buzzer from Louis Tomlinson in 'AGT' Season 11 (@NBC)

Catch new episodes of 'American Idol' Season 22 every Sunday at 8 pm ET on ABC. The latest episodes are available to stream next day on Hulu.

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