Two days after Kolbi Jordan was eliminated from season 23 of “American Idol,” the 26-year-old powerhouse singer broke her silence with a touching Instagram post on May 6, 2025. Jordan, who made it to the top 10 before being cut, was showered with love by her fellow contestants and fans she’s made along the way.
“After an unforgettable journey on American Idol, I’m bidding farewell to the show that helped launch a transformative chapter in my artistic journey is nothing but God’s timing,” Jordan wrote. “From the first audition to the final performance, the experience has left a lasting mark—both professionally and personally.”
Kolbi Jordan Says She’s ‘Excited for What’s Next’
When Jordan, who hails from Atlanta, auditioned for “American Idol,” she blew away judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie with her vocals and spunky personality as she performed “Epiphany (I’m Leaving),” a 2009 Gospel song by Chrisette Michele.
Toward the end of the season premiere on March 9, viewers saw the judges surprise Jordan with the first season 23 platinum ticket — establishing her as one of their favorite contestants and allowing her to skip the first round of competition in Hollywood.
“Auditioning for American Idol changed my life,” Jordan wrote in her May 6 post. “I’m so grateful for the chance to share my God-given gift, connect with some of the most talented musicians, stylist, vocalists, beauticians in the world, and showcase my artistry on one of the biggest stages out there.”
Jordan continued, “This journey came with its challenges—some I’m still working through—but I know God didn’t bless me with this voice for no reason. I’m excited for what’s next… to keep growing, creating, and stepping into everything that’s ahead.”
Expressing gratitude for all who supported her journey on the show, Jordan concluded, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every comment, vote, and word of support. This isn’t goodbye—it’s just the beginning. IF YOU GOT THIS FAR! Keep watching American Idol— That’s all I’ll say.”
Many of Jordan’s new friends from the show flooded her post with love, including top 7 contestant Gabby Samone, who wrote, “My babyyy!!! I love you!!! This experience would not have been the same without you!”
Another top 7 finalist, 17-year-old Slater Nalley, simply wrote to Jordan, “I love you”
Fellow platinum ticket winner Filo, who was cut after making the top 12, wrote, “Love you Kolbi!!! Just wait and see what God has in store for you. You deserve all the glory that’s coming your way❤️”
Could Kolbi Jordan Get to Finally Sing With Patti LaBelle on Finale?
It’s likely Jordan will be back for the May 19 season finale, given that the top 10 typically returns for group performances and, potentially, collaborations with celebrity guests. A perfect pairing for Jordan would be R&B icon Patti LaBelle, whom Richie called during Jordan’s audition, announcing that he’d love to see them perform together.
When Jordan walked into the audition room, she was so star struck by the judges that she launched into a story about how she once briefly met LaBelle, another one of her idols. After Jordan sang, Richie called LaBelle to have her say hello to their newest contestant, who was shaking and squealing as she spoke to the star.
“I hear you’re a ‘sanger,’ not a singer,” LaBelle told Jordan.
“My dream is to have the two of you singing side by side,” Richie said. “I can’t even imagine what that’s gonna be.”
Comments
Kolbi Jordan Breaks Her Silence After ‘American Idol’ Elimination: ‘Changed My Life’