Lola Teams Up with Wilson Phillips for Audition
On March 23, the early ‘90s made a comeback on “American Idol” when two members of the group Wilson Phillips assisted a family member during an audition.
The contestant, Lola, was accompanied by her father, Rob, who was strumming a guitar, causing judge Carrie Underwood to speculate that Lola hailed “from a musical family.”
When Underwood inquired about the song Lola would perform, Lola mentioned she needed some family support. Moments later, she returned alongside her mother, Carnie Wilson, and her aunt, Wendy Wilson. Both women are the daughters of Beach Boys icon Brian Wilson and were part of Wilson Phillips along with Chynna Phillips.
The appearance of the Wilsons took Underwood and fellow judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie by surprise.
“I’m not sure how to move forward from here,” remarked the “Before He Cheats” vocalist.
Lola and her family then harmonized beautifully, performing the hit “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips from 1990.
“You may recognize this song,” joked Carnie Wilson before they started.
Eric McCandless / Disney
After their performance, both Carnie and Wendy Wilson expressed their fondness for singing together as a family, but emphasized that they “love Lola by herself even more,” prompting Underwood to express a desire to hear Lola solo.
Her family then stepped aside, allowing 19-year-old Lola to take the spotlight and perform Kacey Musgraves’ “Rainbow.”
Lola impressively commanded the stage on her own.
“You have everything you need,” Richie remarked post-performance, encouraging her to extend some notes.
Eric McCandless / Disney
“Your voice possesses a beautiful tone and quality, and that song suited you perfectly. However, this competition will require you to project more, letting your voice fill the room with dynamics,” Bryan advised.
“There’s a sincerity in your voice and presence that captivates. I want to see you truly embrace your talent and everything you have to offer, because you bring so much to the table. It’s exciting to think about potentially witnessing that journey,” Underwood encouraged.
“If I make it onto the show, I’ll push myself. That’s my reason for wanting to be on ‘American Idol.’ I want to grow,” Lola affirmed.
The three judges needed little persuasion, as they all cast their votes in favor, sending Lola off to Hollywood for the next round.
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This marks the second instance this season where a pop star accompanied a child for an “American Idol” audition. Earlier this month, Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell performed alongside his son, Baylee, who also progressed to the next round.
Only time will tell how far Lola will go in the competition, but her mother, Carnie Wilson, was thrilled about Lola’s decision to audition, noting her growth as an artist.
“She has such a genuine, pure, and lovely quality,” Carnie shared with “Entertainment Tonight.”
“I couldn’t be more excited for her,” she added.
For those tracking, “Hold On” was one of Wilson Phillips’ biggest hits, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for one week, alongside “Release Me” and “You’re in Love,” both of which also reached No. 1.
