Benson Boone's Season 19 Duet Premieres on "American Idol"

A New Chapter for Benson Boone and Mary Jo Young

Five years after his brief run on American Idol, previously unseen footage of Benson Boone performing on the show has finally aired. During the Feb. 16 episode of the ABC competition series, producers broadcast an unaired duet between Boone and returning contestant Mary Jo Young from season 19. The two had performed "You Say" by Lauren Daigle during Hollywood Week in 2021, though the pairing did not make it to air at the time.

Young, now 24, previously reached the Top 24 during season 19 of the ABC competition series, while Boone advanced to Hollywood Week that season but later withdrew from the competition. In the years since, he has emerged as one of the show's most commercially successful alumni who did not complete a full season run. His 2024 single "Beautiful Things" became a breakout global hit, reaching the top 10 on the Hot 100 and topping charts internationally.

Mary Jo Young’s Return to the Stage

Reflecting on that moment, Young joked to the judges, "Me forgetting all the lyrics to 'You Say.'" She added, "When it came to an end, it was a good, kick the baby bird out of its nest because I needed to go and grow." Since her initial appearance on Idol, Young has toured as an opening act for Alex Warren and Jesse Murph. She told the judges that her confidence has grown in the years since her first audition.

For her return performance, Young sang her original song "Don't Call Me." Underwood praised both the material and the delivery, telling her, "I liked it a lot. I liked the song a lot. Your voice has a different tone to it. It's got some power under it when you start going for the higher stuff. [There is] a lot of personality in you and your voice as well."

Richie offered broader career advice, saying, "I tell people who try to get in the business, it ain't about singing, it's about surviving. If you can get through that, that's the key. You're doing quite well at surviving. It sounds great."

Bryan noted a shift in her stage presence: "There is a different air of confidence to you that's totally new. We're glad you came back around."

A New Opportunity for Young

Young received three yes votes, sending her to Hollywood Week. Despite the name, this season's Hollywood phase is taking place in Nashville, with episodes scheduled to air Feb. 23 and March 2 on ABC.

Following her Golden Ticket moment, Young reflected on her return to the show: "I wanted to come back to American Idol because I learned the most from the show than I have on any tour. I'm going to Hollywood Week much more prepared. This ticket shows me it's always good to get up and try again, and I'm proud of myself for it."

The Impact of American Idol on Alumni

The show has been a launching pad for many artists, and Young is just one of several contestants who have found success after their time on the program. Boone's journey is a prime example of how the platform can lead to long-term careers, even if the contestant doesn't finish the entire season.

For those who do not advance past the early rounds, the experience can still be invaluable. Young's return to the stage demonstrates the lasting impact of the show and the opportunities it can provide. Her growth over the years has been evident, and her performance on the latest episode of American Idol highlighted her progress.

What's Next for Young?

As Young prepares for Hollywood Week, fans are eager to see what she will do next. With her newfound confidence and experience, she is well-positioned to make an impression in the upcoming episodes. The Nashville-based Hollywood Week promises to be a significant step in her musical journey.

In addition to Young's return, the latest episode of American Idol also featured other contestants who are vying for a spot in the next round. Each performer brings their unique style and story to the stage, making the competition more exciting than ever.

Conclusion

The airing of previously unseen footage of Benson Boone and the return of Mary Jo Young to American Idol highlights the enduring legacy of the show. It serves as a reminder that the path to success in the music industry is often long and winding, but with perseverance and passion, it is possible to achieve great things. As the competition continues, viewers will be watching closely to see which contestants can rise to the challenge and make their mark on the stage.