There may not have been a dry eye in the house when Emmy Russell finished singing “American Idol” on Monday.
It wasn't just a song she played.
The 24-year-old took to the stage to sing “Coal Miner's Daughter,” the hit song made famous by country music's legendary grandmother, Loretta Lynn.
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Russell was amazing, and it showed on the faces of the “Idol” contestants, the audience, and the judges who were watching.
His mother, Patsy Russell, was seen crying in the crowd.
And later that night, Patsy shared a photo on social media of herself and Emmy sleeping side by side, writing, “So proud of my baby girl.”
She wasn't the only one in her family to praise her Emmy performance.
“Emmy Russell, you made your grandma proud last night when you sang 'Coal Miner's Daughter' on 'American Idol,'” Lynn's sister, singer Crystal Gayle, wrote on social media. I wrote this. “You were amazing!!!”
Russell's evolution (she has tried to become more outgoing and confident in her performance) has been a major storyline during the show's seasons. This performance seems to have been an important moment.
When the judging was over, Russell guessed it was judge Katy Perry who optioned the song. The judges suggested songs to each contestant and they chose from among them. And she was right.
“I didn't choose this song because Loretta Lynn is your grandma,” Perry said, her voice rising. “I chose this song because you are Emmy Russell and as Emmy Russell you can do anything now.”
It was also a moment for Russell, who often expresses his emotions freely.
She shed a few tears before the song started, but performed with determination.
“I'm Emmy Russell,” she said. “I am proud that she is 24 years old and the great-granddaughter of a coal miner.”
This performance also helped Russell survive further cuts and advance into the top seven in the contest.