Singing
Blind woman begins singing “Rise Up” and wrecks judge Lionel Richie completely
He lost it.
Jake Manning
01.11.24

Whether it’s the lyrics that resonate with us or the melody that stirs something deep within, music can be incredibly moving.

This emotional power of music is something we frequently witness on shows like “American Idol,” where the stories behind the songs add an extra layer of depth and feeling.

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On “American Idol,” contestants not only showcase their vocal talents but also share personal stories that often inspire and move both the judges and the audience.

These stories, ranging from musical journeys to personal struggles, make their performances even more impactful.

It’s these human stories, intertwined with their music, that often leave a lasting impression.

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Shayy’s story is one such tale that tugs at the heartstrings.

Just a year before her audition, Shayy began experiencing vision problems.

Initially thinking she just needed glasses, a visit to the eye doctor took a dramatic turn when she was advised to rush to the emergency room.

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At the hospital, an MRI revealed a brain tumor, leading to a diagnosis of hydrocephalus – a condition involving an excess buildup of fluid in the brain.

This caused swelling in her optic nerve, which was the root of her vision issues.

Despite the doctors’ efforts to remove the tumor and save her sight, Shayy tragically lost her vision.

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Returning to school as a blind student, Shayy faced cruel bullying.

She endured people kicking her cane and pushing her, but amidst these challenges, she also found friendship and support.

These friends helped her adjust to her new life, showing the power of kindness in the face of adversity.

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Despite these hardships, Shayy, a student at a performing arts high school, refused to give up on her dreams.

She decided to audition for “American Idol,” a platform where she could share her story and her voice with the world.

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During her audition, Shayy met judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie.

She opened up about her experiences over the past year and chose to sing Andra Day’s “Rise Up” – a song emblematic of overcoming challenges.

Lionel Richie’s excitement was palpable as soon as Shayy announced her song choice.

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Shayy’s performance was so powerful that it brought Lionel Richie to tears within seconds.

Her rendition of “Rise Up” was not just a display of her vocal talent but also a testament to her resilience and strength.

Lionel’s emotional reaction was a clear indicator of the impact of her performance, which earned her the coveted Golden Ticket to Hollywood.

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Lionel Richie, with his extensive career and experience on “American Idol,” has witnessed many performances, but Shayy’s audition was uniquely moving.

Listen to her beautiful voice in the video below!

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