The 20-year-old singer-songwriter cemented her place in the competition’s top three finalists on Sunday, performing “I’ll Stand By You,” as covered by past “Idol” winner Carrie Underwood, and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” by Journey.
Judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan raved about her performances — as did a wildly enthusiastic crowd of supporters who gathered for a watch party at Normal West High School.
“Your career is sitting in front of you, my dear,” Richie told her after the second performance. “Enjoy this ride.”The general consensus? No matter what happens next on the show, Marlene’s future in the music industry is replete with opportunities.
Watch Leah Marlene Gives Journey’s “Separate Ways” An Incredible Performance – American Idol 2022
