“We need more God” Fantasia Barrino takes the American Idol stage with ‘Have Your Way’

Fantasia Barrino returned home to the stage that made her famous twenty years after she won American Idol. She wasn't only there to reflect during the April 28 "Iconic Idol Moments" episode; she also sang a soul-stirring rendition of her new single, Have Your Way, and served as a mentor.

Wearing a shimmering silver gown and backed by a powerful gospel choir, Fantasia lit up the room with raw emotion and unmatched vocal fire. After the performance, she shared the deeper meaning behind the moment with host Ryan Seacrest:

"The world is going through a lot right now and we need more God, so I allowed Him to use me on the biggest stage ever."

It was a statement that matched the moment—vulnerable, honest, and deeply personal. Her return was perfectly timed for the episode’s theme, too. After all, Fantasia’s 2004 performance of Summertime remains one of the most unforgettable in Idol history.

Now a Grammy winner, Broadway star, and film actress, Fantasia brought her full-circle journey to life. For the contestants watching from the wings and the viewers at home, her presence was a reminder of just how far American Idol can take someone—and how meaningful it is when an artist uses their voice for something greater than themselves.

Fantasia Barrino delivers an emotional performance on American Idol

Fantasia Barrino took the American Idol stage by storm with her powerful performance of Have Your Way—a moment that felt as raw and real as it was vocally stunning. She had the room in the palm of her hand from the first note. She gave every song her all while surrounded by soft lighting and swirling smoke. You could sense the gravity and significance of every statement when she fell to her knees in a moment of emotional surrender.

The audience didn’t wait to show their love; applause erupted the second she finished. American Idol judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood, along with artist-in-residence Jelly Roll, all jumped to their feet for a well-earned standing ovation. It was more than just a performance; it was a homecoming, a full-circle moment for an artist who first found her voice on that very stage.

After taking a breath, Fantasia shared a quick update with the crowd: she’s working on a gospel album and a new podcast, stepping into fresh creative territory while staying rooted in what moves her most—faith, music, and authenticity.

Barrino's now-famous rendition of "Summertime" from Porgy and Bess was a part of her 2004 American Idol debut. Then-judges Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul gave that performance high marks, describing it as "outstanding" and labeling it an "Oscar-worthy performance."

Reflecting on that pivotal career moment in a 2023 People magazine interview, Barrino described herself as "just a little girl from High Point, North Carolina that liked to sing" who "didn't know nothing about the industry." That authenticity connected deeply with viewers and helped secure her victory.

Two decades later, Barrino has transformed from an inexperienced teenager into an entertainment powerhouse. In a recent conversation with AFROTECH, she acknowledged the significance of "Summertime" in her career development:

"For me, going back to 'Summertime,' it means a lot because that's the song that made people change their mind on me."

Fantasia Barrino’s role as mentor

The goal of Fantasia Barrino's comeback to American Idol was to give back, not merely to put on a spectacular performance (which she did). She contributed something very intimate as a mentor: experience. She knows exactly what it’s like to stand on that stage, chasing a dream while the whole country watches. That made her advice to this season’s contestants all the more impactful.

Her presence reminded everyone why Idol has lasted this long: it’s more than a competition; it’s a community. Seeing Fantasia go from a young singer finding her voice in 2004 to a powerhouse artist guiding the next generation is what the show’s all about: growth, resilience, and full-circle moments.

As the Top 12 tackled “Iconic Idol Moments,” Fantasia stood there as living proof of what’s possible when talent meets purpose. Her powerful performance of “Have Your Way” didn’t just show off her vocals—it revealed her heart. With messages of faith and surrender woven into every note, she gave the audience something real to hold on to.

In the end, her return was more than just a reunion; it was a celebration of how far she’s come and a reminder to every contestant watching: this stage can be the beginning of something lasting.

Trending

You can watch American Idol Season 23 every Sunday and Monday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC or stream episodes the next day on Hulu.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback