‘American Idol’ Contestant Chayce Beckham Performs Chris Stapleton Cover Following Emotional Hometown Visit

Chayce Beckham reflected on his tumultuous road to the American Idol finale on Sunday evening (May 23) and returned to his hometown of Apple Valley, California to celebrate.

“I’m just a normal guy from Apple Valley,” Beckham humbly shared as he returned home as a local celebrity. His family was there to support him during his emotional return to his hometown, as he called it a “full-circle” moment as tears overcame him. 

Beckham’s performance showcased his incredible country vocals as he took the stage for a cover of Chris Stapleton’s hit, “Fire Away.” The song put his soaring vocals on full display and once again impressed the Idol judges. 

“What a great choice for your voice, for your whole demeanor,” Lionel Richie told him.

Katy Perry added, “You know sometimes, God has to turn up the volume on your life to see if you are listening and you are listening!”

She later promised, “Your world is about to change!” 

Luke Bryan, who invited Beckham to go bass fishing with him earlier in the evening, praised his growing confidence. 

“I just can’t imagine what you’re going to look like in five years,” the country superstar told him. 

Beckham became an instant fan-favorite following his audition with “What Brings Life Also Kills” by Kolton Moore & The Clever Few. He also found a fan in American Idol judges, Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie, as each judge voted him through to the next round. Throughout the season, he’s performed covers from artists such as Chris Stapleton, Bob Marley, Bryan Adams and more.  He even offered up two original tunes, “Mamma,” and “23,” proving he has the songwriting chops to go along with his vocals and stage presence.  

The star-studded American Idol finale aired on ABC and also featured performances from Sheryl Crow, Chaka Khan, Luke Combs, Mickey Guyton, Lindsey Buckingham, Fall Out Boy, Alessia Cara, Leona Lewis and Macklemore as well as the Idol judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.

Several contestants from the Top 24, including Alyssa Wray, Arthur Gunn, Cassandra Coleman, Casey Bishop, DeShawn Goncalves, Hunter Metts, Phillip Murphy and more, returned to perform during the finale as well.