Introduction:
Thunderstorm Artis Shines on American Idol 2025, Finishes in the Top Five
Hawaiian-born singer-songwriter Thunderstorm Artis has once again captured hearts across America — this time on American Idol 2025, where his soulful performances and heartfelt storytelling earned him a spot in the coveted Top Five.
Artis, best known for finishing third on The Voice in 2020, returned to national television with a renewed sense of purpose. At 29, the husband and father of two saw Idol as his final chance to share his art on a major stage — and he made it count.
A Journey Rooted in Family and Faith
Born on Oahu as one of 11 siblings, Thunderstorm was raised in a deeply musical family that taught him to dream big despite humble beginnings. His unique name — a blend of “thunder” and “storm” — perfectly mirrors the energy and emotion he brings to every performance.
During his Idol audition, Artis performed an original song, “Don’t Let Me Let You Go,” written for his wife, Faith. Judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan gave him a standing ovation, setting the tone for what would become one of the season’s most inspiring journeys.
Throughout the competition, Artis stayed true to himself — often performing original material like “My Last Dying Breath” and “Out of the Blue.” His authenticity and emotional depth set him apart in a field often dominated by big vocals and flashy covers.
A Season of Emotional Highlights
In the Top 24 round, filmed at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii, Artis showcased his range with Bob Marley’s “Is This Love” and Adele’s “When We Were Young.” But it was his Top 10 performance of “Faithfully” — dedicated to his wife and children — that became a defining moment. Singing directly to Faith in the audience, he told her, “The world may have my gift, but you have my heart.” The heartfelt gesture moved both fans and judges to tears.
Mentored by Lin-Manuel Miranda during Disney Week, Artis performed “Colors of the Wind” and his original song “Out of the Blue,” earning another standing ovation. When host Ryan Seacrest announced the Top Five — after more than 20 million votes — Thunderstorm’s name was called.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Though his journey ended just shy of the finale, Artis left American Idol on a high note. In his final performances, he sang “Find Yourself” and “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” the latter dedicated to his young son. After his elimination, he released a new original, “I Just Want You to Know,” written for his wife.
In his post-show interview, Artis reflected gracefully: “This is when the real work begins.” His wife Faith later wrote on Instagram, “You won in my heart, babe. The world was blessed by you.”
From Hawaii to Hollywood, Thunderstorm Artis has proven that success isn’t only about winning — it’s about connecting. His soulful honesty, family devotion, and musical integrity ensure that his voice will continue to resonate long after the Idol stage lights fade.