Arthur Gunn Puts Reggae Twist On John Denver Classic on ‘American Idol’

https://youtu.be/9Gz83cHPqgE American Idol returned on Sunday night (May 3), broadcasting from the homes of the cast and contestants around the…

Andrew Wendowski

| Posted on

May 3, 2020

8:24 pm

https://youtu.be/9Gz83cHPqgE

American Idol returned on Sunday night (May 3), broadcasting from the homes of the cast and contestants around the country. Live to tape from 25 locations, Sunday night’s episode unveiled the Top 10. Making the most of the situation, producers shipped each contestant equipment and had them perform from home alongside the Idol band. The judges, Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Katy Perry, as well as host, Ryan Seacrest, and in-house mentor, Bobby Bones, also appeared from their homes.

One of this season’s frontrunners, Arthur Gunn, secured a spot in the Top 10. He was overcome with emotions after hearing the news, but went on to deliver a solid performance of John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” The Idol hopeful put his own spin on the iconic song and once again impressed the judges.

“When you take John Denver’s song with a reggae twist on it and it’s all believable, my friend, it’s all the way to a hit record for you, I’m telling you I love what you did,” Lionel Richie shared.

“I felt so much more connected to that performance, with you connecting with me, I mean looking at the camera and working it Arthur, that was amazing,” Katy Perry gushed.

“What a classic song to take on and what a way to put your spin, so much of your vibe is Bob Marley and for you to take ‘Country Roads, Take Me Home’ and make it that reggae style, I think that performance really showcased you in a perfect way bud, great job!” said Luke Bryan.

“Take Me Home, Country Roads” was written by Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert and John Denver about the state of West Virginia.

The Top 10 will be narrowed down to the Top 7 come next week. Fans who would like to vote for Arthur Gunn can vote online or by texting 16 to 21523.

American Idol returns next Sunday (May 10) at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Written by

Andrew Wendowski

Andrew Wendowski is the Founder and CEO of Music Mayhem. As a self-taught entrepreneur, he oversees content as the Editor-In-Chief for the independent brand. Wendowski, who splits time between Philadelphia, Penn., and Nashville, Tenn., has an extensive background in multimedia. Before launching Music Mayhem in 2014, he worked as a highly sought-after photojournalist and tour photographer, collaborating with such labels as Interscope Records and Republic Records. He has captured photos of some of the biggest names, including Taylor Swift, Metallica, Harry Styles, P!NK, Morgan Wallen, Carrie Underwood, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Shania Twain, and hundreds more. Wendowski’s photos and freelance work have appeared nationwide and can be seen everywhere from ad campaigns to various publications, including Billboard and Rolling Stone. When Wendowski isn’t running Music Mayhem, he enjoys spending time at concerts, traveling, and capturing photos.