18-Year-Old Slater Nalley’s “Angel from Montgomery” Performance Leaves Judges Stunned—Is This the Next Music Sensation?

A soulful voice. A classic song. And a moment of magic that left everyone silent.

On the April 28 episode of American Idol, 18-year-old Slater Nalley once again proved why he’s quickly becoming one of Season 23’s most captivating rising stars. Taking on the timeless “Angel from Montgomery” by John Prine, Nalley transformed the stage into a space of raw emotion and quiet power.

The performance — part of the Iconic Idol Moments theme night — paid tribute to Megan Danielle’s unforgettable rendition from a past season. And if there were any doubts about Slater’s ability to deliver under pressure, they were erased the moment he began to sing.

 A Voice Beyond His Years

From the opening line, Nalley’s voice carried a sense of emotional depth well beyond his age. With warm, weathered tones and aching vulnerability, he brought new life to John Prine’s folk ballad. What could’ve been just another cover turned into one of the most memorable performances of the season.

“Every single time you get on stage, I can imagine what your first album is going to sound like,” said Carrie Underwood.
“You’re so identifiable.”

Fantasia Barrino, this week’s mentor and a former Idol champion herself, encouraged Nalley during rehearsals to loosen up and embrace the soul of the song — advice that clearly paid off.

 Judges Praise Slater’s Growth

The judges were clearly moved:

Lionel Richie applauded the young singer’s growth, noting, “It’s great to see your confidence coming out.”

Luke Bryan added, “Keep having fun. Keep playing the game of American Idol.”

Each week, Nalley has showcased not just talent, but artistic evolution. His ability to connect deeply with every lyric and stay true to his musical identity is what continues to set him apart.

From Elton John to John Prine: A Journey of Discovery

Nalley’s road to stardom hasn’t just been about strong vocals. It’s been about finding his artistic voice. Before entering the Top 12 with his emotional performance of Elton John’s “Your Song,” Slater sat down with Billboard to reflect on his Idol experience so far.

“The judges’ support has done the most for boosting my confidence,” he said.

“I don’t think Lionel saw it at first, but in Hawaii and Hollywood, he’s been my biggest cheerleader.”

 Jelly Roll’s Advice That Changed Everything

While the judges have helped shape Nalley’s Idol path, it’s artist-in-residence Jelly Roll who left perhaps the biggest impression.

Nalley shared that he struggled with in-ear monitors — a common challenge for new artists. But Jelly Roll gave him a simple yet powerful piece of advice: “Take one out.”
“I did — and it was the best performance of my life in Hawaii,” Nalley recalled.

That performance helped propel him forward in the competition and gave him a new level of control over his own sound.

 Trusting His Instincts

As American Idol heads toward its finale, Slater is embracing a key lesson: trust yourself.

“The coaching is amazing,” he said, “but I’ve learned that I know myself best. I just need to lean into that more.”

That self-trust was evident in “Angel from Montgomery.” His delivery didn’t try to mimic past versions. Instead, he let the song breathe — allowing the silence between the notes to speak just as loudly as the lyrics.

Why This Performance Mattered

Slater Nalley’s rendition wasn’t just technically strong — it was deeply human. It resonated with everyone in the room, from the judges to the audience, and reminded us why music matters. In an age of overproduction and flash, Slater kept it simple — and made it unforgettable.

If he continues on this trajectory, it’s not hard to imagine him as one of the final contestants — or even this season’s winner.