Filo’s Soulful Performance Of “Try A Little Tenderness” Left The Judges Speechless
Twenty years ago, in 2005, Carrie Underwood won American Idol and launched a global career. Now, she finds herself on the other side of the competition, serving as a judge and helping young hopefuls achieve their dreams. One standout contestant is Filo, an Egyptian immigrant who grew up singing in churches in the United States.
During an interview with ABC10, Filo admitted that “moving to the United States was very difficult at first, but for me, music was my link into American society.”
Watch his interview below.
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Filo Receives The Platinum Ticket
American Idol has been filming for months, anticipating this year’s season.
The show gives out “golden tickets” to all those who will go to Hollywood or, rather, the next round of the competition. American Idol is divided into rounds: the audition round, Hollywood week, followed by live shows and culminating in the final three or four.
Three “platinum tickets” were introduced in 2022. These tickets allow the lucky contestants, whom the judges deem outstanding, to pass the first round of Hollywood Week. This is a high honor, and Filo was surprised to be given the platinum ticket during the live taping of the ball dropping in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
During the reveal, Underwood shared, “Filo! This guy is so good! I cannot wait for you guys to hear him; he’s amazing.”
Filo responded, “Wow, thank you so much! Man, meeting you already and Ryan and Lionel and Luke, it’s been the experience of a lifetime! I’m speechless right now.”
He was then surprised with a platinum ticket. Below is his tear-jerking response.
Filo’s Stunning Audition
Filo auditioned in Los Angeles with his rendition of “Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding. His soulful voice left all three judges stunned. Luke Bryan expressed his belief that Filo could make it to the top 10. Carrie Underwood added that he might no longer need medical school, which had been his chosen path before singing.
Watch his audition below.