‘American Idol’ Winner Noah Thompson Shares A Deeply Personal Look at His Past in ‘Upbringing’ Music Video

Earlier this year, Noah Thompson set out to connect with fans on a deeper level by leaning into vulnerability through his songwriting. He showcased the first taste of raw honesty through his debut release as an independent artist, “Upbringing,” which is now coming to life in a brand-new music video that’s based on a true story.

The heart-pounding video, directed by Giovanne Gotay with Unveiled Productions, stars a father and his two young boys – one who portrays a young Noah Thompson and the other who takes on the role of his brother. Together, candidly depict some of the dark memories from the American Idol alum’s childhood that still sticks with him today. 

The three characters are shown breaking into an abandoned house and settling into the building that lacks furniture and electricity. Despite only being able to afford to share a can of food for their meal, the boys witness their dad involved in what appears to be a drug deal on their own front porch, thus setting the foundation for the trouble they would face in their lives down the line. Viewers then see the footage jump to the present day, where Thompson emerges inside a bar. He appears to be so intoxicated that he gets in a bloody fight with the security guard who attempts to escort him out of the establishment, demonstrating his recent string of bad decisions that he’s now striving to leave in the past. 

While delivering the unfiltered chorus, the rising country star is filmed driving down the countryside road and reflecting on his life choices. An image of his dad suddenly emerges in the mirror, reminding him that if he can’t get his anger and abuse under control, he’ll end up going down the same dark path. 

Thompson uses the tune that he penned with Lalo Guzman and Josh Dorr to show that despite all the challenges he endured growing up, he’s as determined as ever to make a better life for himself. The end of the video finds his younger self discovering his passion for music and using it as a tool for survival when times got tough. Finally, the two versions of Thompson come face-to-face before the screen goes dark. 

The “One Day Tonight” singer posted an early teaser of the video that has been viewed almost 4 million times on TikTok. Now that the full version is out, fans will get to uncover a deeper understanding of Thompson’s background and the experiences that made him who he is today. 

“I knew the video for ‘Upbringing’ had to be real to my life,” Thompson explained. “I had déjà vu filming it because it was so real. But honestly, when I think back on those days and even watch them back in the video, I don’t see those activities as bad things. It was just what we did to get by and was just normal to my family.” 

Since embarking on his new journey of independence with his music career, Noah Thompson has embraced authenticity to the full extent. He shows this openness through both “Upbringing” and the follow-up release “Demons In My Whiskey.” This Friday, he will unveil a brand new single titled, “American Dream,” which continues his mission by bringing attention to the frequently overlooked challenges that come with chasing the American dream.

Written by Chris Gelbudda, Steven Lee Olson, and Daniel Tashian, the upcoming tune is expected to focus on stories of financial struggle, toxic relationships, mental health, and more. Thompson tackles these tough realities with both courage and grace, making him a clear standout in the genre.

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He kicked off his fall tour over the weekend with a stop in Greensburg, KY at their Pumpkin Pickin’ In The Square. The run continues through December 31 with stops in Tennessee, North Carolina, Kentucky and more.