The Top 8 hopefuls of this season's American Idol came together to honor the judges in the season’s long-anticipated “Judges’ Song Contest” during its most recent episode, and they did not disappoint. In this episode, Breanna and Mattie performed a duet that, while not the only memorable performance of the night, was truly spectacular. Breanna and Mattie concluded the show by performing Carrie Underwood’s “Something in the Water,” and their chemistry was unquestionable.
Both Breanna and Mattie have acquired the praise of critics and fans during this season. Their emotional ballad exuded their unmistakable synergy while highlighting their talents as individual vocalists.
After the night closed, fans swiftly took to social media and reacted to the duet performance. Their connection and heartfelt delivery were praised by many on social media.
An American Idol viewer wrote on X,
"I am loving Breanna and Mattie’s duet!!! They’ve been my favorites since the beginning ❤️ #AmericanIdol"
Another fan shared on social media,
"Breanna and Mattie just delivered Something In The Water better than they did their own songs tonight to be honest. #AmericanIdol"
"Breanna & Mattie sound really good together! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 #AmericanIdol," a tweet read.
More fans of American Idol shared their reaction to Breanna and Mattie's tribute to Carrie Underwood.
A fan posted on X,
"Breanna and Mattie did a wonderful job singing @carrieunderwood’s Something in the Water! #AmericanIdol #CUonIDOL"
Another netizen expressed,
"Mattie & Breanna surprisingly sound good together. Mattie is doing a good job holding her own against a powerhouse like Breanna. #AmericanIdol"
A person wrote on his account,
"Aw, Breanna and Mattie did great #AmericanIdol"
"Dangggg Mattie and Breanna just DID THAT!!! Phenomenal #americanidol," another X user wrote.
"I feel very honored" — American Idol's Carrie Underwood gets emotional after Breanna and Mattie duet
During American Idol Season 23 Episode 16, Breanna and Mattie performed a beautiful duet of Carrie Underwood's "Something in the Water," which made an impression on the judges and audience. The duet, which was the evening's last performance, was a notable one with its smooth harmony, vocal power, and depth of emotion. Fans weren't the only ones captivated by the emotional performance; Carrie Underwood was clearly moved by the homage.
"I had some tears in my eyes. That was really wonderful. I know it probably felt like 'okay, my like, competition song is over and you can just sing' but you felt very at ease. It was just beautiful and I feel very honored right now,” Carrie shared, reacting to their performance.
Although the duet was a part of a larger episode theme that honored judge anthems, Breanna and Mattie's performance was the night's most emotional high point.
To know who takes home the big win, stay tuned to American Idol Season 23 on ABC.