James Taylor to mentor top 14 as American Idol reveals Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class

James Taylor. Image Source: Youtube/@James Taylor
James Taylor. Image Source: Youtube/@James Taylor

The stage is set for a double dose of excitement on American Idol this Sunday, April 27. Not only will the top 14 contestants show off their skills, but the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees will also be announced live during the episode. Host Ryan Seacrest will reveal the big news as part of the night's festivities.

Adding to the thrill, music legend James Taylor, who was inducted into the Rock Hall back in 2000, will be stepping in as a mentor for the top 14. Contestants will be performing songs tied to previous Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees. At the end of the night, two contestants will head home, narrowing it down to a top 12. Both this episode and the following night's show will air live coast-to-coast from 8-10 p.m. ET/5-7 p.m. PT, with next-day streaming available on Hulu.


James Taylor joins American Idol as a special mentor

The legendary James Taylor is bringing his decades of experience to the American Idol stage. Taylor, who was honored by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000, will guide the top 14 contestants as they take on songs made famous by past inductees.

With Taylor's mentorship, the episode promises to offer fresh takes on classic hits. His involvement is a major boost for the hopeful singers looking to leave their mark on American Idol. It’s not every day that contestants get advice from someone who’s already earned a big spot in music history.

The pressure will be on as two contestants will be eliminated by the end of the night. The performances will decide who advances into the top 12, making it a night where every note truly matters.


The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class announced live on American Idol

In a special twist, American Idol will also unveil the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees live during Sunday's broadcast. Ryan Seacrest will take the mic to announce the new class, making it a night packed with both competition and celebration.

This year's list of nominees, revealed back on February 12, is an eclectic mix. It includes Bad Company, The Black Crowes, Mariah Carey, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Billy Idol, Joy Division/New Order, Cyndi Lauper, Maná, Oasis, Outkast, Phish, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes.

Fans will be eager to find out who makes the final cut. Mixing the announcement with the American Idol competition promises to deliver a night that's as much about honoring legends as it is about finding new stars.


Monday’s episode highlights iconic American Idol moments

The excitement doesn't end on Sunday. The Monday, April 28, live episode of American Idol will focus on "Iconic Idol Moments."

Season 3 winner Fantasia will serve as the mentor for this theme and will also perform. Fantasia’s journey from contestant to winner made her a standout in American Idol history, so having her back in the mix adds a special touch.

Adding even more star power, artist-in-residence Jelly Roll will be in the live studio audience. While he won't be performing, his presence adds another layer of buzz to the show.

Once again, the Monday episode will air coast-to-coast from 8-10 p.m. ET/5-7 p.m. PT, with Hulu streaming it the next day for fans who miss the live action.


A pivotal weekend for American Idol contestants

With two huge episodes back-to-back, this weekend could be a turning point for the top 14 contestants. Between Sunday’s Rock Hall-themed night and Monday’s "Iconic Idol Moments," contestants have a big opportunity to connect with viewers and judges alike.

Sunday’s eliminations will cut the field to 12, raising the stakes even higher. By Monday, those remaining will need to tap into the magic of American Idol history to leave a lasting impression.

And with legends like James Taylor and Fantasia offering guidance, the contestants have strong mentors to help them rise to the occasion. It’s a pivotal point in the competition, and every performance counts more than ever.


Whether it's hearing the Rock Hall announcements or catching the "Iconic Idol Moments," the excitement of American Idol won't be limited to one night. And with so much happening in one packed weekend, there's no doubt that American Idol will keep audiences talking long after the final notes fade away.

Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal