In 2018 we saw the first season of the reboot of American Idol with new judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan. That was the first time we saw Laine Hardy. He was a high school senior who won over the judges with his version of “Hurricane” by Band of Heathens. Unfortunately he was eliminated before he could make the Top 50, with the judges commenting on his lack of confidence.
In season 2 he came back to the American Idol stage, but he was only there to play guitar for his friend’s audition. The judges recognized him immediately and welcomed him back. After she made it through they encouraged Lane to sing for them again. His impromptu version of “The Weight” by The Band impressed the judges and they handed him a Golden Ticket that he hesitantly took.
Although his friend Ashton was eliminated in Hollywood Week he made it all the way to the finale. During that show he performed “Jambalaya (On the Bayou) by Hank Williams and he also sang a duet with Jon Pardi on a medley of Jon’s songs. His new found confidence, look, and sound helped him to beat out Alejandro Aranda and Madison VanDenburg to be declared the winner of American Idol Season 2.
Hardy has been very busy since his time on Idol with new music, a huge social media following, and virtual concerts during the pandemic. He and his band have also traveled overseas to entertain the troops.
Now we are excited Laine Hardy will be coming to Kearney on September 30th to Joe’s Honkytonk in Kearney to perform for us along with Chris Bandi and Kylie Frey. Tickets are still available at https://www.outhousetickets.com/Event/17767-Laine_Hardy_with_Chris_Bandi_and_Kylie_Frey/
Keep listening for Laine Hardy on Y102 and listening for your chance to win tickets to the show.