Emmy Russell’s original song “Skinny,” featuring lyrics about body image and eating disorders, nearly brought everyone to tears.
Emmy Russell, granddaughter of country music icon Loretta Lynn, proved that she was an artist in her own right during a recent episode of “American Idol.”
The 24-year-old singer-songwriter from Nashville auditioned in front of judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan during the show’s Feb. 25 episode, during which she opened up about wanting to not live in her grandmother’s shadow.
“She’s one of the biggest country music singers of all time, but to me she’s just Grandma,” she said, adding “I think I am a little timid, and I think it is because I want to own my voice. That’s why I want to challenge myself and come out here.”
Russell then went to the piano and sang an origin song titled “Skinny,” featuring raw lyrics about living with an eating disorder. All three judges were floored by her storytelling and soft, but powerful voice.
“You’re an A+ songwriter. So was your grandma. You got the gift. I don’t think you need to compare yourself to what Grandma was. You’re totally different. You shouldn’t give yourself all that pressure,” Perry said just before Russell was given the unanimous approval to go through to the show’s next round.
Viewers online seconded the sentiment. One person wrote, “apples don’t fall far from the tree. Her Grandma passed on the gift of songwriting, and now Emmy needs to take that gift and add her own special gifts to it. It’s your time to shine – enjoy the ride.”
Another added, “She definitely has a talent, and can tell a story in a song. With the right mentoring, and encouragement from people outside the family, she should fulfill the promise she shows, and step out of the Lynn shadow.”
Watch the full performance below:
Besides being a captivating performer, Loretta Lynn was known for writing deeply personal and honest lyrics. Russell does well by her role model, in a way that’s uniquely her own.
News
INSTANT FEAR Hits WNBA Players After Sophie Cunningham DESTROYED Mystics BULLIES!
The face of the Indiana Fever was out. The arena buzzed with uncertainty. And the Washington Mystics, sensing weakness, came…
“Shaquille O’Neal Faces Intense Backlash After Reportedly Referring to Angel Reese With Vulgar Insult—NBA Legend Under Fire for Calling Rising WNBA Star an ‘Idiot,’ Sparking Outrage Across Social Media and Prompting Public Demands for Accountability, Respect, and a Formal Apology”
“Shaquille O’Neal Faces Intense Backlash After Reportedly Referring to Angel Reese With Vulgar Insult—NBA Legend Under Fire for Calling Rising…
2 Minutes Ago: Lisa Leslie DESTROYED Angel Reese FOR MISSING LAYUPS, Says Caitlin Clark is BETTER!
Just moments ago, the women’s basketball world was rocked by a viral podcast clip featuring WNBA legend Lisa Leslie giving…
INSTANT REGRET Hits WNBA After Brazil Show How Caitlin Clark DESERVE to be Treated!
Brazil didn’t just cheer for Caitlin Clark — they honored her like a national treasure. And now, fans are asking…
“BREAKING: Angel Reese DROPS BOMBSHELL Ultimatum to Team USA—‘If Caitlin Clark Joins, I’m OUT for Good!’—Head Coach Cheryl Reeve FIRES BACK in Explosive Clash That’s Splitting the Locker Room and Sending Shockwaves Through Women’s Basketball!”
The American basketball community was rocked when Angel Reese dropped a bombshell ultimatum on Team USA. The fiery young star…
Angel Reese Furious After Sky Coach Picks Cardoso as Team’s Top Star!
Coach Tyler Marsh’s decision to overhaul Angel Reese’s role with the Chicago Sky has sent shockwaves across the WNBA landscape,…
End of content
No more pages to load