Breanna Nix’s American Idol Journey Started With A Carrie Underwood Cover
Breanna Nix has been open about her faith from the start of her American Idol journey to the very end, which is why it makes perfect sense she joined Brandon Lake for a duet on Sunday night’s (May 18) finale.
25-year-old Breanna introduced herself to the judges of Idol‘s 23rd season as “just a stay-at-home mom” from Denton, Texas. That comment prompted Carrie to say:
“Never say I’m just a stay-at-home mom…you have the most important job.”
Breanna attended her audition with her husband, Austin, and young son, Emerson. Austin played piano, and Emerson sat in Carrie’s lap while Breanna sang “Jesus, Take the Wheel.”
“Jesus, Take the Wheel” was the first single Carrie released from her debut album after she won Season 4 of American Idol. Because of this, she found Breanna’s beautiful cover incredibly moving.
Little Emerson dozed off in Carrie’s arms while his mama sang, which made Carrie extra emotional. She couldn’t control her tears at the end of Breanna’s audition.
Therefore, it was no surprise that Carrie, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie all voted to give Breanna a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.

Breanna Nix’s Road To Becoming An Idol Finalist
From there, Breanna proved herself with a series of stunning performances during Hollywood Week. She continued to showcase her faith throughout the competition. She performed a song by Christian artist Lauren Daigle when she advanced into the Top 24 and sang at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii.
After that, Breanna made it into the Top 20 and performed during Idol‘s “Songs of Faith” special on Easter Sunday.
She then advanced through the fan-voted stages of the competition, delivering impressive renditions of songs such as “The Show Must Go On,” “Like My Mother Does,” and “You’ll Be in My Heart.” She also joined Mattie Pruitt to sing a heavenly cover of Carrie’s “Something in the Water” during the Judges’ Song Contest Night.
After weeks of devoting herself to the competition, Breanna learned on Monday (May 12) that America voted her into the finale. She joined fellow finalists Jamal Roberts and John Foster.
Breanna Nix And Brandon Lake Sing Celebratory Duet During Idol Finale
During the finale, Breanna had the chance to perform a special duet with Christian artist Brandon Lake. Breanna covered Brandon’s “Gratitude” early in the competition, during Hollywood Week.
Plus, Brandon isn’t a stranger to Breanna and the rest of the Idol family. He previously performed “Hard Fought Hallelujah” with Jelly Roll during Idol‘s “Songs of Faith” special on Easter!
Breanna and Brandon delivered a marvelous duet version of his new song, “Daddy’s DNA.”
Unfortunately, the performance occurred after Breanna had already learned she had come in third place. But you couldn’t see any hint of sadness on her face, as she appeared to be on cloud nine while singing with Brandon.
Watch Breanna Nix and Brandon Lake sing together during the Idol finale in the video below. They made an amazing team!