Backstreet Boys fans get ready to feel the feels! Brian Littrell one of our favorite BSB members just had a seriously proud dad moment. His son Baylee Littrell auditioned for the new season of American Idol and it was an emotional rollercoaster for everyone especially Brian!
Like Father Like Son? Baylee Littrell Auditions for American Idol Season 23 Hoping to Make His Own Mark
You might know Baylee Littrell as Brian Littrell's son but this 22-year-old is determined to make a name for himself in music. He decided to audition for American Idol Season 23 and his journey started on Sunday March 9th. Turns out talent runs in the family because Baylee impressed the judges right away!
New judge Carrie Underwood even noticed something "familiar" about Baylee before he revealed his famous dad. Luke Bryan joked he didn't have Brian's posters on his wall unlike Carrie who totally recognized the family resemblance. Baylee joked about inheriting his dad's singing skills but not his dance moves. Growing up with a Backstreet Boy dad was both a blessing and a challenge for Baylee. He admitted it is "scary" to follow in his dad’s footsteps given Brian's incredible music career. He even opened for the Backstreet Boys at just 8 or 9 years old experiencing massive arenas early in life.
"10 Times More Talented!" Brian Littrell's Heartfelt Reaction to Baylee's Audition is Pure Dad Pride
Brian Littrell got super emotional talking about Baylee and his music dreams. He knows the music industry is not always easy even if you have a famous name. Brian proudly stated "I’ve always told everybody that he’s 10 times more talented than I ever was." Outside the audition room Brian teared up praising Baylee's hard work and dedication. "We’re super proud" Brian said "I think he’s cut out for it."
Baylee performed an original song that he described as "emotional" about wanting to give up but not giving up yet. The song clearly resonated with the judges. Carrie Underwood was blown away especially since Baylee wrote it himself. She even told him "I think you could go very very far in this competition." Luke Bryan was so impressed he invited Brian to join Baylee for a duet of the song's chorus right there in the audition room. It was a special moment for father and son.
After the surprise duet Carrie Underwood pointed out that Baylee held his own even with his "superstar singer dad" joining in. She said Baylee didn't "pale" or "shy away" but owned his moment. When all three judges Lionel Richie Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood gave Baylee a "yes" sending him to Hollywood Brian was overjoyed. "I’m gonna cry. I’m crying" he said showing pure dad pride and happiness.
From Arenas to Auditions: Baylee Littrell's Journey to American Idol and Beyond
Baylee Littrell is not new to music. He has been around it his whole life and has been working on his own career for years. He actually started his music journey pretty early. At 9 years old he was already opening for the Backstreet Boys in huge arenas. Later at 13 he even performed on Broadway in a musical called "Disaster!".
After Broadway Baylee focused on country music. He landed a record deal at 16 and released an album called "770-Country" in 2019. He got to work with big names in Nashville and toured with country star Chris Lane. He has experienced performing in arenas and smaller venues honing his skills over time. American Idol is the next step in his musical path a chance to reach a wider audience and prove himself as an artist in his own right.
Carrie Underwood Returns to Idol and Praises Baylee Plus More Season 23 Details
Season 23 of American Idol is seeing some changes. Katy Perry left the judging panel but in her place is a familiar face and Idol success story Carrie Underwood. Carrie is back as a judge 20 years after she herself auditioned and won American Idol in 2005. She brings a unique perspective having been in the contestants' shoes before.
Carrie was particularly impressed by Baylee's audition highlighting his songwriting talent and stage presence. She joins veteran judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan to find the next American Idol superstar. This season also introduces a new "artist in residence" role with Jelly Roll mentoring contestants during Hollywood Week. And of course Ryan Seacrest is back hosting for his 23rd year.
Key Highlights of Baylee Littrell's American Idol Audition
- Baylee Littrell son of Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell auditioned for American Idol Season 23.
- Judges Carrie Underwood Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan were impressed by Baylee's original song and talent.
- Brian Littrell was emotional and incredibly proud watching his son.
- Carrie Underwood a former American Idol winner is a new judge this season and praised Baylee.
- Baylee has been performing since a young age including opening for the Backstreet Boys and performing on Broadway.
- Baylee is moving on to Hollywood Week in the competition.
Will Baylee Be the Next Idol? Watch American Idol Sundays to Follow His Journey
Baylee Littrell's American Idol journey is just beginning. His audition was a success and he is heading to Hollywood Week. Will he be the next American Idol? You will have to tune in to find out! American Idol Season 23 airs Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and is available to stream the next day on Hulu. Get ready to root for Baylee and see if this Backstreet Boys' son can make his own dreams come true on the Idol stage!