Mikaela Mathews
Twenty-year-old singer Samantha Diaz delivered an emotional audition on ABCâs American Idol this week, concluding it all by asking the judges to pray with her, according to CBN.
The singer, who goes by âJust Sam,â was adopted by her grandmother as a child and lives in a project in Harlem, New York. Sheâs loved to sing since she was a kid and spends much of her time in the subways collecting money after her impromptu performances.
âMy mother wasnât there for me, growing upâŠneither was my father. My grandmother made sure we were fed, had a roof over our heads and had clothes on our backs,â she said.
Diazâs grandmother, Elizabeth, gave her granddaughter three pieces of advice before her audition: âBelieve in yourself. Believe in God. And learn to forgive people.â
During her audition, Diaz attempted to sing Lauren Daigleâs âYou Sayâ but was overcome with emotion. The judgesâKaty Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryanâgave her a moment to collect herself and offered words of encouragement.
She eventually decided to do what she felt most comfortable: singing like she does on the subway. She confidently sang Andra Dayâs âRise Upâ to a stunned panel of judges. Each of them encouraged her to keep singing, win or lose.
âWeâve got you and I want you to rely on us to coach you through this,â said Richie after her performance. âIâm so grateful that God put you in front of us.â He also told her that she was safe with them, to which Diaz asked, âCan I pray with you guys, is that okay?â
While holding hands around the judges table, the four prayed, âHeavenly Father, Lord make my life brand new right here, right now, with my friends and my new fam, Amen.â
The audition sparked supportive tweets from host Ryan Seacrest. âAlways need a box of tissues nearby when watching auditions like Just Samâs. Admire her heart and strength so much,â he said.
No matter what happens, Diaz is grateful for the experience.
âI know that at this point in my life, Iâve already made my grandmother proud. Her seeing me on TV was my dream and it finally came true after all these years ⊠Iâm currently filled with so much gratitude, joy and so much peace. Being able to audition for American Idol has truly changed my life.â
Photo courtesy: American Idol
Video courtesy: Â American Idol