Here's why I believe American Idol Season 23's Slater Nalley has the potential to become a finalist

Disclaimer: This American Idol article is based on the writer's opinion. Readers' discretion is advised.

American Idol Season 23's Slater Nalley, 18, is a high school student. His audition, just like all of his performances on the reality show, has been memorable. He performed his original song, Traces of You, which he wrote after reading a poem by his teacher, Mrs. Davis, about her son's tragic death.

The teen student's audition moved millions of viewers and the judges, and got him on the show. Slater Nalley from the Lovett School, Atlanta, Georgia, has left the viewers speechless with his performances. His passion, along with his singing skills, truly shows his potential to become a finalist on American Idol Season 23.

American Idol Season 23: Slater Nalley - a high school student with the potential to make it to the final

Slater Nalley feels singing for him is an "out-of-life" experience. He feels the "connection" with the rest of the world via his music and singing, as he told his high school newspaper on September 19, 2023. He has been there since kindergarten and can't remember how far back his passion for singing goes.

"For as long as I can remember; I actually can't remember my life without singing," he said.

Having such artists participating in the shows makes it truly enjoyable. This results in their getting much-deserved exposure from a global platform such as American Idol. Slater Nalley is such a passionate individual, and he shares that while being a member of the chorus at his school. He has also been part of various musicals.

He won the judges ' hearts when he joined American Idol Season 23 through his unforgettable audition. His performance during the Top 12 selection was Young Song by Elton John. For that, he thanked the judges for "boosting" his confidence.

"I don't think Lionel saw it as much as the other two, but in Hawaii and Hollywood he's really been my cheerleader. So it's cool for him to say I'm an artist. Carrie is the best and so is Luke," he said.

He also mentioned artist-in-residence, Jelly Roll, who also helped him a ton. Slater Nalley said that Jelly Roll has helped him with the in-ear monitors, which, after Jelly's advice, he took one out and:

"I did and gave the best performance of my life in Hawaii."

In addition to getting guidance and advice, he mentioned, he needs to "trust his gut," which didn't sound like a teenager at all. With such a great passion for music, Slater Nalley is quite a mature individual when it comes to music and his singing. He further stated that coaching is "awesome," but he needs to "lean into" knowing himself best.

Nalley's most recent American Idol Season 23 performance was John Prine's Angel From Montgomery. To his performance, Carrie Underwood stated that every single time he goes on stage, she could imagine what Slater's first album will sound like.

"It's great that your confidence is coming out. I love your stage presence. You're solid as a rock," said Lionel Richie.

Luke told him to keep having "fun" and playing the "game."

With such remarks and appreciation from the judges, Slater Nalley, a teenager, has the potential to become a finalist and probably win American Idol Season 23 as well.

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Fans can catch Slater Nalley's performances from American Idol Season 23 episodes on Hulu.

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