American Idol has seen many stories, but this one is truly something special.
They are from diverse backgrounds, with stories that range from awe-inspiring to heart-wrenching.
Meet Cam Amen.
He’s a remarkable young man whose past could have easily shattered anyone.
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![](https://cdn.shareably.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18124304/sing1.jpg)
However, his spirit remained unbroken.
During the customary pre-audition chat and interview with judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan, Amen opened up about his upbringing.
Just before his audition, he said this, “It was a bit rough going in and out of foster care.”
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Also stating, “I just remember being taken out of my classroom by police officers. I’m holding my brother. We didn’t know what was going on. We were crying waiting for Mom.”
Their mom never came.
We were in foster care for a long time. I did leave at 18 and took in my brother and sister. I knew I had to raise them right and get them through high school.”
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![](https://cdn.shareably.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18125235/sing3-1.jpg)
Imagine how frightening it would have been, being in Cam’s shoes in that situation.
He had to take on the responsibility of raising his siblings after they were placed in foster care.
Even though he had challenging circumstances in his upbringing in Indianapolis and his current residence in Nebraska, Cam refused to let those obstacles hinder him or his siblings.
Now, with his brother reaching 21 years old and his sister turning 20, Cam is prepared to pursue his own dreams.
And man, does he have a voice.
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![](https://cdn.shareably.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18125259/sing4-1.jpg)
Despite being nervous, Cam bravely stepped onto the audition stage and decided to share his story.
His story touched every heart listening.
Cam chose Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” as his song and delivered it with emotion.
His performance was one of those remarkable auditions that left viewers in awe.
Truly a moment that made you say, “Hallelujah!”
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![](https://cdn.shareably.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18124411/sing6.jpg)
After his performance, Lionel said, “Welcome home. You’ve been through a lot, but the rest of your life is waiting on you.”
Even Luke Bryan also sang his praises.
“I can’t hardly breathe. This is our sixth year here and your style is so beautifully unique. I don’t have anybody that I’ve seen in this chair to compare you to. Every time I wanted you to do something amazing you did it. It was just incredible.”
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![](https://cdn.shareably.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18124418/sing5-1.jpg)
Ericka, Cam’s girlfriend, stood by his side during the entire audition, about to witness a truly extraordinary moment.
Sensing the significance of the occasion, Richie, Perry, and Bryan requested Cam to invite Ericka in before delivering their verdict.
How fortunate she was to be a part of such a memorable experience.
Their verdict was golden.
The judges proceeded to explain the prize at hand – two tickets, specifically the highly coveted golden ticket and the esteemed platinum ticket.
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![](https://cdn.shareably.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18124426/sing7.jpg)
At this point, Cam’s heart swelled.
He experienced an overwhelming surge of emotions.
And then, as if the stars had aligned, he was given a great award: the season’s final Platinum Ticket.
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![](https://cdn.shareably.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/18124508/sing8.jpg)
This moment made him realize that he is about to embark on a very special journey, that he and many others dream of.
Hear Cam tell his story then sing his heart out in the video below!
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