02/14/14 — It's official: Majesty York is in AI's top 30

View Archive

It's official: Majesty York is in AI's top 30

By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on February 14, 2014 1:46 PM

Full Size

Majesty York

It's official -- Majesty Rose York is in the Top 30 on "American Idol."

After weeks of Internet rumors and spoilers listing the Goldsboro native among the 15 female contestants who will perform live on the show starting next week, on Thursday night's broadcast on Fox TV, at 8:25 p.m., her status was confirmed.

Since the auditions in Atlanta, she has impressed the judges with her artistry. But forgotten words during one of the Hollywood Week solos also drew their attention.

"There have been some good moments and there have been some not-so-good moments," judge Harry Connick Jr. told the 21-year-old. "As we go through each and every talent individually, rarely are we so enthusiastic about a talent."

The camera focused on Majesty's face, a slight smile broke out as Connick continued -- "You made it through to the Top 30."

"You sure did," chimed in judge Keith Urban.

Rising to give her a congratulatory hug, judge Jennifer Lopez made the consensus unanimous.

"We have high hopes for you, Majesty," she said.

This is the 13th season for the popular singing competition.

But the complete list of those earning the Top 30 slots was not  announced. When it came down to it, only 14 males were selected, with America given the opportunity to determine the 15th contestant, between two contenders, Ben Briley and Neco Star. The results of that vote will be announced Tuesday, when the live shows begin.

Next week, "American Idol" will feature a special three-night event, with hopefuls given the chance to win over the judges and the audience.

In addition to Majesty, a 2010 graduate of Eastern Wayne High School, one other North Carolina contestant made the Top 30. Caleb Johnson, a 22-year-old from Asheville, is in his third attempt on the show. He auditioned in Season 10, and then during Season 11, made it just shy of the live shows before being cut.

The season's first live (tape-delayed) show will air Tuesday from 8 to 10 p.m., featuring the 15 female contestants. Their 15 male counterparts will do the same the following night. On both shows, voting will begin immediately after the show.

Voting is critical, as the pool of singers will be cut from 30 to the Top 13 finalists. Those in that category will be announced Thursday night.

Stay tuned. Pick up a copy of Sunday's News-Argus for more about the contest and how to become a big supporter of Goldsboro's hometown contestant.