What Happened To American Idol's Baylee Littrell?

It's rare to see the children of celebrities audition for shows like American Idol, despite their close ties to the entertainment industry. These kids are often labeled as "nepo babies" as they typically pursue fame through other avenues. But during Season 23 of the beloved singing competition, fans were stunned when 22-year-old Baylee Littrell — son of Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell — stepped in front of the judges to audition.

Baylee impressed the judges with not just his voice but his originality, singing an emotional original tune called "Waiting On Myself To Die." In fact, he continued to showcase his songwriting skills throughout the competition. Unfortunately, Baylee was eliminated when the contestants were cut from the top 20 to the top 14. However, he's since left a lasting impression on fans.

American Idol's Baylee Littrell Released His Debut Single

Baylee Littrell Took A Leap Of Faith By Singing His Original Song To The Judges On Idol

Season 23 of American Idol featured some of the most talented singers the series has ever seen. One standout waas 22-year-old Baylee Littrell, who entered the competition proving he could not only sing, but also play guitar and write his own music.

While 27-year-old Jamal Roberts ultimately won the season, fans know that making it to the Top 20 alone can be a launchpad for success. After Baylee was eliminated, he continued to work on his music, and just announced the release of his debut single, "Hey Jesus."

In an Instagram post on June 24th, Baylee announced that his song was officially available for everyone to hear.

"Y’all it’s out… listen to #HeyJesus on all streaming platforms 🙏🏼 I’m so grateful for all the love you guys have shown this song and I’m so excited for you to hear the full studio version," the caption of his post read.

Fans quickly flocked to Baylee's post to congratulate him and express their love for the song. Throughout the season, Baylee never shied away from sharing his strong faith, something that was especially highlighted during a three-hour Easter episode of the show.

"I'm listening to it on YouTube and the song is great and your voice is beautiful I'm so proud of you🫶👏❤️!!!" A comment read.

"Wow, this song is truly so beautiful, and Baylee sings so well. He's truly talented. I'm actually getting tears and goosebumps." A fan wrote.

Baylee Sang "Hey Jesus" During American Idol's Hollywood Week

Baylee brought his faith to American Idol when he first sang his original song, "Hey Jesus," during Hollywood Week. Before he took the stage, he shared that the song was dedicated to his late grandmother, who he became very close to and who would raise him while his dad was on tour with the Backstreet Boys.

"She would always step in. She understood me, like not many people do," Baylee shared. After his grandmother passed away, Baylee admitted he began to question his faith. But through that pain, he wrote “Hey Jesus,” a song that reflects his journey back to believing.

Fans were touched by his Hollywood Week audition, stating things like, "There is something pure and genuine about him, which he is able to communicate through his music to the audience. Really like this humble guy. So much emotion in this song. Music truly is healing and therapy."

Speaking to CCM Magazine about releasing the song as his debut single, Baylee expressed that he was afraid to release a song about faith. "I was afraid to ruffle feathers… but my mom told me, ‘This is your journey. Ruffle any feathers you need to,'" he shared.

Speaking more in-depth about his original tune, he shared with the outlet:

"Three years ago I found myself questioning everything, even the big man upstairs. The growing pains of life weighed heavy on my shoulders and I lived every day in fear of the next. At the time, I had never fully put my trust in God. I thought I had to be a certain way for Him to see me—but He took me as I was. That’s when I wrote "Hey Jesus.'"

Fans can also expect a debut album from Baylee later this year. His song "Hey Jesus" will certainly be a part of the record.

Baylee's Dad, Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell Revealed Idol "Courted" His Son

Brian Littrell Was Extremely Supportive Of His Son's American Idol Journey

American Idol fans were surprised that Baylee chose to audition, given that his father is none other than Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell. However, when Baylee auditioned, his father made it clear that being part of the music industry doesn't guarantee an easy path for his son. Baylee needed to find success on his own.

"Obviously, growing up in the industry, a lot of people get that as such a perk, but it's not easy," Brian shared.

Brian had supported his son throughout his American Idol journey. In fact, during Baylee's audition, he joined him for a special moment — meeting judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood, and even singing alongside his son.

In a recent interview with Parade, Brian admitted that the show had actually wanted Baylee to audition before, stating that they "courted him for a couple of years."

"It wasn't [my idea] actually," he began. "To be honest with you, I didn't want him to do it at first, but they courted him for a couple of years. They were like, 'Come and audition,' and he was like, 'Nah.' I don't think he was ready at that time, but he did well. He stepped up. He's super professional," Brian shared.

He continued, "He's just a great individual. He's just a great person. He has a heart of gold, and he's super talented."

Brian also made sure to share with the outlet that his son’s debut single, “Hey Jesus,” was on the way. Now, that's what we call one super-supportive and proud father.

"I get choked up a little bit when I talk about my boy. He's just [the] most inspiring thing in my life right now. He inspires me more than anything. Top 20 isn't a bad thing out of 124,000. Let me just take this shameless plug really quick: His first single comes out. It's called "Hey Jesus." Check that out," he said.

For more American Idol coverage, visit our Reality TV Hub.

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