The Young Gospel Singer Gained A Platinum Ticket During His First Audition

Canaan James Hill has been stunning the American Idol judges since day one.

The aspiring pastor captivated the judges with his performance of “I Need Your Glory.” Moved by the young singer, Lionel Richie stood up and began pacing during the audition. After the performance, Richie approached the boy and hugged him, clearly impressed by his talent.

He then awarded the aspiring minister a Platinum ticket, a rare ticket that allows the recipient to bypass the first round of judging during Hollywood Week. Only three are awarded a season.

Watch his impressive performance below. 

RELATED: John Foster Honors Late Best Friend With Tearful Original Song On “American Idol”

Canaan James Brings Gospel To Hawaii

The singer made it through the rest of Hollywood week and was invited to Hawaii.

He moved the audience again with a worship performance, and after that, Carrie Underwood said, “I think you have one of the most dynamic voices I’ve ever seen since I’ve been on the show.”

Lionel Richie said,

“All I want you to know is every once in a while, we witness a possession. That was a possession. And he didn’t do any tricks. Your voice is your signature. I just love it when you just interpret the word. But on top of that, I cannot wait to hear you when you start interpreting other songs outside of the church, because I know you’ve got the ability to navigate your own sound within those songs, but you nailed that song tonight.”

Watch his performance below.

RELATED: “I Talk to Jesus ‘Bout My Kids”: Luke Bryan Brings Tears To Parents Everywhere On “American Idol”

The Gospel Singer Made It To The Top 12

Hill reached the Top 12 and stayed close to his roots with a performance of “Mary, Don’t You Weep.” The great Aretha Franklin originally sang the song, and Hill did it justice. Watch below.