By Cindy Peterson
Tavares Student Shines on American Idol Season 22
One of our own received a golden ticket on American Idol Season 22. 15-year-old singer Deida Jeudy from Tavares amazed the judges on last night’s episode and has made it to the next round.
Deida’s passion for music ignited at a young age, and her early performances in elementary school hinted at the star she would become. However, her journey is inspired by more than just music. As the eldest sibling to three brothers with a rare disease causing blindness, Deida has shouldered immense responsibility from a young age.
During her emotional audition, Deida opened up about the challenges of caring for her younger siblings, ensuring their safety in a world often obscured by darkness. Her story touched the hearts of judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie, who praised her as an “amazing sister.”
Deida’s rendition of Leon Bridges’ “River” not only showcased her vocal power, but also served as a tribute to her brothers. Her voice, she revealed, has been a source of comfort for her siblings, a beacon of hope amid their struggles.
The judges, particularly Katy Perry, praised Deida’s voice as “timeless” and infused with “thousands of years of soul and pain and happiness.” She was awarded the golden ticket and will now be moving on to Hollywood week.
See here audition here:
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.
