Jasmine Mae Humphries says she is "just a small town girl chasing her big dreams."
The "American" Idol Season 23 contestant, who hails from Union County, South Carolina, auditioned for the hit television show on her 20th birthday.
Her day was filled with surprises, with many more to come.
Last week, the Greenville News reported that 19-year-old Freddie McClendon from Greenwood, S.C., was also competing in the show, his song "You Never Loved Him" paving the way for him to enter Hollywood's Arena Round. Show host Ryan Seacrest called the singer's audition his favorite of the season.
Read on to find out how both contestants are faring in the show.
Who is Jazzy Mae?
Jazzy Mae is Humphries' stage name that she uses across her social media platforms. Back in August 2024, the artist had her first in a series of Zoom calls with American Idol casting producers. But her 20th birthday would become what she calls "the most monumental moment" of both her career and life.
"I have been singing ever since I was a little girl and NEVER thought this opportunity would happen to me." she gushed on Facebook. "I can remember singing in church behind the pulpit, singing in the Sims choir, playing gigs for years, and finally writing and playing my own music to the world."
On Oct. 2, 2024, Humphries flew to New York City, where she auditioned for the show and sang "Cause of Her," an original song dedicated to her mother. With her mother in the room, she performed in front of musicians Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, who each approved of her audition.
"They even sang Happy Birthday to me." she posted. Ryan Seacrest also autographed her birthday sign.
From there, Humphries was off to Hollywood.
Did Humphries pass Hollywood's Arena Round?
Although Humphries' American Idol auditions have yet to be aired, the singer confirmed via social media she made it through the show's Arena Round in Hollywood. For the audition, she sang Chris Stapleton's "Parachute."
"Idol Arena Round in HOLLYWOOD!" she said on Facebook. "This was such a special, emotional, stressful, but incredible experience. I had the BEST time in Hollywood meeting SO many talented people that I'm so proud to call my friends. I'm just blessed to be among them."
Did McClendon pass Hollywood's Arena Round?
In an Instagram post from Monday, McClendon shared that he did not pass through the Arena Round. However, the young singer is grateful and far from discouraged, viewing the opportunity as a time for growth.
"This isn't the end ? it's just the beginning." he posted. "Keep believing in your own journey, your voice, and the legacy you're building."
Nina Tran covers trending topics for The Greenville News. Reach her via email at [email protected]