After his audition for American Idol aired Sunday night, Dakota Hayden has had a few days full of emotions as he’s been flooded with messages and support from Kentucky.
Hayden said he was nervous leading up to his performance in front of judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. Hearing from Perry that he was “top-10 material” was a huge honor, Hayden said.
“I was really honored, when I was as a kid I was really shy when I sang around people. I’ve come so far since then. and now I’m getting told I’m top-10 material by one of the most known celebrity singers there is. It is it was just crazy,” Hayden said.
With three emphatic “yes” votes, Hayden advanced to Hollywood. Each judge felt they had found a person that would be successful in their franchise, noting Hayden’s authenticity, talent and craft with and without the guitar.
Hayden said that he is thankful for the outpour of support coming from Kentucky and his hometown of Fordsville in Ohio County.
“It’s definitely a crazy moment in my life. I never even thought I would get this far to even be auditioning for the show, so I’m pretty pleased with myself and my singing capabilities,” Hayden said.
With going to Hollywood comes more challenges, but Hayden is ready for anything the show will throw his way. He hopes to enjoy every moment, and his main goal for this experience is simply to showcase what he is able to do.
For everyone in Kentucky, Hayden said to continue to cheer and root for him as the experience continues on and be sure to tune in for what’s to come.
American Idol airs Sundays at 8/7c on ABC.
