South MS singer’s big risk blows judges away on ‘American Idol.’ Will he survive?
Daniel Stallworth’s bid to become the new American Idol moved forward Monday in the eighth episode of the reality singing competition’s 24th season.
The Moss Point native sang “All Night Long” by Idol judge Lionel Richie on Monday’s episode, taking a big chance and getting raves from the judges, including the song’s original singer. The song choice was “the riskiest thing anyone is doing,” said country music superstar and guest judge Brad Paisley.
And it was a choice that paid off, according to the judges.
“I’m going to give a compliment that I’ve never given before. You took that song and made it yours,” Richie said. “If you put that out tomorrow, I’ll split it with you.”
“I was sad it didn’t last all night long,” said guest judge and mentor Keke Palmer, the famed singer/actress. “You brought it to life.”
Judge Luke Bryan delivered a powerful critique, saying “You might be the best singer in this competition.”
Stallworth was one of 10 singers who performed in Monday’s episode. The remaining 10 singers will be featued in next week’s episode before six performers are eliminated. The music teacher’s bid to move forward now lies with the voting public. After surviving an audition and judges’ cutdowns to 30 and 20 singers, eliminations will now be based on voting by the viewing public.
How to vote
There are five ways to vote for a contestant on American Idol:
- Online at americanidol.com/vote
- By texting a singer’s number to 21523. Stallworth’s number is 4.
- By social media at facebook, Instagram or TikTok
Voters must be at least 16 years old to participate at americanidol.com/vote and 18 years old to participate on social media.
When to vote
Voting for American Idol began at the beginning of the broadcast at approximately 7 p.m. Central time and locks at 5 a.m. Central time on March 17. Voting continues on Monday, March 23 at 7 p.m. and locks the following morning at 5 a.m.
This story was originally published March 16, 2026 at 7:58 PM.