Jill O'Rourke
Jill O’Rourke is a contributor at Talent Recap, writing news stories and recaps for shows like ‘AGT,’ ‘The Voice,’ and ‘American Idol.’ She graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in English and Film Studies, and has been writing about pop culture since 2012, with previous bylines at Crushable and A Plus. Jill spends her free time binge-watching sitcoms and daydreaming about life as a hobbit
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| April 20, 2021 SIGN IN TO SAVE POST
ABC / YouTube, @williespenceofficial / InstagramReading Time: 3 minutes
One of the frontrunners on Season 19 of American Idol is Willie Spence. The 21-year-old has blown the judges away with his powerful performances throughout the competition.
Willie’s name on Instagram is “StarInTheMaking,” and we have to agree. Could he be the next American Idol?
5 Facts About Willie Spence
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Spence’s Rihanna Cover Went Viral
In 2017, a video of Spence performing Rihanna’s “Diamonds” went viral. It currently has over 12 million views on YouTube. He was even invited to perform the song on The Steve Harvey Show.
During his interview with Steve Harvey, Spence revealed that he stopped breathing shortly after he was born. He said he “basically died,” until the doctors were able to help him.
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He Lost Weight to Improve His Health
Before his audition for American Idol, Spence said he went to the hospital after experiencing chest pain. The doctors told him he had fluid in his lungs.
SEE ALSO: SEASON 18 ‘AMERICAN IDOL’ CONTESTANTS RETURN FOR A SECOND CHANCE
Spence weighed 600 pounds at the time. He was inspired to get healthy, and lost almost 200 pounds. He said he changed his eating habits and started working with a trainer.
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Spence Took Care of His Mom During an Illness
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Spence chose to move to Los Angeles to pursue a music career. However, his mother was soon diagnosed with cancer, so he returned home to Georgia to take care of her.
Spence’s mom is reportedly doing better now.
“God has given me a second chance,” the singer told the newspaper. “I am here for a purpose.”
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His Friend Makes His Suits for the Show
Spence has been looking stylish during his recent performances on American Idol. According to the AJC, his suits are made by a friend of his from Nashville named Mark Nelson.
SEE ALSO: MEET ALYSSA WRAY, ‘AMERICAN IDOL’S TOP 10 POWERHOUSE
Tailors from the show help to make the outfits look even sharper, so Spence can flaunt his talents while feeling fierce.
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Spence Has Already Released Music
Earlier this year, Spence released a single called “So Gone,” along with an accompanying music video. He also recently put out an EP called The Voice, which features “So Gone” and five other songs.
“I put my personality and all of my feelings into every song. It’s the one thing I’m very particular about,” Spence said in an interview. “When you listen, I hope you feel the emotion. I want the audience to get the message you can live your dream if you work hard, stay focused, and keep pushing. I want to be an example you can do anything.”
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