Slater Nalley has advanced to the Top 8 on season 23 of the AMERICAN IDOL competition. The singer, who is 18 years old, secured his spot during the results announced on the May 4 episode.
The advancement followed his performance on the show, where contestants sang songs by "iconic women in music." Nalley performed "Whoever's in New England," originally made famous by Reba McEntire.
Nalley also recently progressed to the Top 10 during the episode airing on April 28. The theme for that week's performances was "Iconic AMERICAN IDOL Moments." Nalley performed John Prine’s Angel from Montgomery, a song previously performed on the show by Megan Danielle.
His journey on the show began with an emotional audition performance of "Traces of You," an original song dedicated to the late son of his English teacher, Michele Davis. The performance drew tears from the judges and gained significant attention online.
Nalley is currently finishing his senior year at the Lovett School in Atlanta, balancing his studies with the competition schedule. Despite attending school in Atlanta, he also has family ties to Troy, Ohio. His mother, Katie (Meeker) Nalley, is a graduate of Troy High School, and his grandparents, George and Cindy Meeker, reside there.
Looking ahead, Nalley has stated his focus is on a music career. He told per Atlanta Magazine in late April that it "looks like music is going to be it for me." He previously sent a video message to his classmates after reaching the Top 14, expressing gratitude for their support.
Judges, including Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood, have noted his distinctive sound and solid stage presence throughout the competition.
The competition continues with voting influencing which contestants advance each week. AMERICAN IDOL airs on Sundays and Mondays.
Nalley acknowledged the importance of viewer participation in his journey on the show.
"If I don’t have votes then I can’t, I can’t progress, I can’t do anything, it doesn’t matter about talent anymore," Nalley said. "It matters about votes and, um, the more we can get voters out there, it is going to make my dreams come true."
