“I heard you’re a ‘sanger,’ not a singer,” LaBelle told 26-year-old Kolbi Jordan.
Within just a few minutes, 26-year-old Kolbi Jordan managed both.
Afterwards,Lionel Richiesurprised her with a phone call to her favorite singer,Patti LaBelle.
Kolbi Jordan and Patti LaBelle.Credit:ABC; Jamie McCarthy/Getty
“Patti LaBelle, favorite singer, baby,” she said.
“She came to Tulsa this year I was in that thang.
She looked at me, gave me a flower, ahh!”
Kolbi Jordan on ‘American Idol’.ABC
JudgeLuke Bryanthen pointed out, “Lionel has Patti on speed dial.”
Jordan then launched into her song.
Before she delivered the final note, Richie was looking at his phone and sneakily dialing LaBelle’s number.
Kolbi Jordan and Lionel Richie.Disney/Eric McCandless
There is a young lady here who has really been ‘sanging.’
So I want to introduce you."
Jordan appeared flustered as she tried speaking to her hero.
“Hi beautiful,” she managed.
“I heard you’re a ‘sanger,’ not a singer,” LaBelle replied.
Jordan rushed out: “Can I have some pie?”
before dissolving into giggles.
Before signing off, she added, “Love you, Kolbi.
And good luck!”
“I cant even imagine what thats going to be.”
Once she was done fangirling over LaBelle, the judges showered Jordan in praise over her performance.
“Obviously, an incredible voice,” saidCarrie Underwood.
“Im so happy for you.
We just met and I feel proud of you and excited for you.
You had dynamics within dynamics.
It was just amazing.”
Bryan added, People and Culture Generalist?
you’re able to kiss that little title goodbye.
Richie weighed in too, telling Jordan, “First of all, the instrument is just crazy great.
And the second thing is you sold us just on your personality.
She replied, “Im blessed to be here.”
Watch Kolbi’s full audition above.
