American Idol's Slater Nalley Plans To Win Over Fans With More Original Songs After Making Top 7

There are only a few more episodes left before American Idol announces its Season 23 winner. It's been a tough competition with this season's Idol contestants truly some of the best singers that the reality TV show has seen. The Top 7 have all found a new wave of fans and, although only one contender can win it all, the remaining six will certainly find their lives changed for the better as they seek out careers in music.

One of these Top 7 competitors that has truly touched both the judges and America is Slater Nalley. The 17-year-old high school student made judge Carrie Underwood tear up during his audition after singing an original song. In fact, the Idol contestant shared that he hopes he can showcase more of his own work before the competition is over. Hopefully, he will get that chance.

American Idol's Slater Nalley Hopes To Sing More Of His Original Songs Before A Winner Is Announced

Slater Nalley Is In The Top 7

17-year-old Atlanta, Georgia native Slater Nalley wants to show America that he has what it takes to win American Idol. Not only has he impressed both the judges and viewers at home with his country singing voice each week, but he has showcased incredible songwriting abilities since he auditioned.

In an interview with Parade, the high school student, who is now in the Top 7, shared that he hoped he could continue singing his original songs before Season 23 came to a close.

"I did two original songs, and I have wanted to do one since. But at the end of the day, we have to go off what they send us," Slater told the outlet.

Slater sang two original songs during his Idol journey. One during his original audition and a second song during "Hollywood Week." However, as he progressed in the season, he and the rest of the contestants had to sing songs based on the various theme nights. This season saw themes like "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" night, "Iconic Idol Moments," and "Ladies' Night." With only two more nights before the finale, it's a close call whether Slater gets his wish.

Still, he's had a remarkable time on the show. He told Parade, "I’m enjoying every minute of it, though. I’m so happy to be here. I’m happy to be able to share my music with everybody, and the response has been great from everybody, so it’s been cool to see that."

Slater Nalley Made Judge Carrie Underwood Cry After His Touching Audition

Slater Sang An Original Tune About His Teacher's Late Son

When Slater Nalley auditioned for American Idol, he decided to choose an original song to sing in front of judges, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and new judge and Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood. Before he entered the room, his school teacher, Michele Davis, introduced Slater to the judges after sharing that he was going to perform a song dedicated to her son, who had tragically died eight years ago.

Titled, "Traces of You," the song deeply touched the judges and there was not a dry eye in the room. Carrie broke down in tears during Slater's performance. Slater's audition quickly went viral.

Carrie shared in tears, "Even though this was about your son, every single person that hears that can fill in that memory with somebody that's in themselves. I couldn't have imagined you doing that any better."

"Traces of You" Lyrics

[Verse 1]

your laugh was like a river running home

That crooked smile made people talk, you know?

By the boy who's eyes slickered like the light before it goes

You laugh was like a river running home

[Pre-Chorus}

In the dark at night, you always found the sun

One look at you and I just come undone

Now you visit me in shadows

I can't reach and I can't run

In the dark you always found the sun

[Chorus]

A moment breaks and you appear

And for a second I swear you're standing right here

I'd give anything for love to be enough to make it true

As the memories come racing into view

These traces of you

[Verse 2]

Somewhere past the sky

I can feel you dancing in the air

Every single time I see a bird fly by

I'm reminded that you're answering my prayers

Lionel was impressed with Slater's songwriting ability. "That one line. 'Your life was like a river running home.' That's the one, very powerful." Luke added, "You just stick to walking out on stage and singing with your heart and the rest will take care of itself." Slater got three yeses from the judges and moved on to "Hollywood Week."

In an interview with Rough Draft Atlanta, Michele shared how heartwarming it was to have one of her students share her personal story through a song in front of the judges. "To hear Slater sing ‘Traces of You’ in front of celebrity judges and then watch the audition was truly surreal — just magical," she said. "Losing a child shatters you, and yet life goes on. To see Carter’s spirit get to live on a little in this song is a priceless gift that seems to put some of those shattered pieces back together. My family is forever grateful," Michele added.

The Top 7 Contestant Continued To Showcase His Original Work During "Hollywood Week"

Slater Sang "Foolish Pride" During "Hollywood Week"

Slater received the golden ticket to Hollywood after his remarkable audition. Again, he chose to sing another original song in front of the three judges. Slater sang a song titled, "Foolish Pride." He shared that he had written the song at the age of 15, which is pretty impressive.

According to Slater, the song is "about self-reflection," admitting that he wrote it during a "hard time in a relationship." Slater's original song is a powerful expression of vulnerability, showcasing his willingness to confront personal emotions. Both songs showcased Slater's natural talents for songwriting, and it's no wonder that both he and fans want to hear more.

"Foolish Pride" Lyrics

[Verse 1]

Don't go wasting any breath on me

I ain't what they say I am

And I've been around for way too long

Trying to be a different kind of man

Don't go wasting any time on me

Promised time don't mean a thing

Just a word people use

Try to make them feel like something's gonna change

[Verse 2]

I'm tired of this foolish pride

It's dark inside, it haunts me

When I try to move it carries me

Away from what my heads telling my heart

Oh, when I come back down

My darling, I know just what you say

Oh boy, how I love you if you just put that foolish pride away

After his performance, the judges were shocked at Slater's storytelling, especially for being only 17. Carrie said, "I'm scared. That was so good, I'm scared," with Luke adding, "You got a lot more stories to tell, and I'm glad you're telling them."

In the aforementioned interview with Rough Draft Atlanta, Slater shared about showcasing his music: "As an artist, I’d like to make people feel the music, and feel the emotions that I put into the songs."

Slater and the remaining six American Idol contestants are gearing up for "Disney Night" on May 11th, where they will sing Disney classics. If Slater makes it to the Top 5 the following night, these contenders will perform twice. Here's hoping Slater gets that chance to perform another original tune.

American Idol airs Sundays and Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.