Introduction
On May 12, 2025, the Dolby Theater filled with a sense of wonder as American Idol celebrated Disney Night for Season 23. The episode was a highlight of the season, full of nostalgic and moving performances. Among the top seven contestants was 18-year-old Slater Nollie, a senior from Atlanta’s Love at School, whose deep voice and knack for storytelling had captivated viewers from his first audition.
A Star in the Making
Slater’s journey was built on heartfelt performances. He taught himself to play the guitar at 13 after his aunt gave him the instrument, and by 15, he was writing his own songs. His powerful audition of “Traces of You,” a song he wrote for his high school English teacher after her son was murdered, brought judges Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie to tears.
“Every single person that hears that can fill in that memory with somebody that’s in themselves,” Carrie said, her voice cracking with emotion. This moment solidified Slater’s place as a frontrunner, and he continued to impress with soulful performances of songs like “Soul Shine” and “Over the Rainbow.”
Disney Night: The Challenge
For Disney Night, Slater was mentored by guest artist Lin-Manuel Miranda. His song choice, selected by artist-in-residence Jelly Roll, was Elton John’s classic “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from The Lion King. The stakes were high, as the American public was voting in real-time to decide the top five.
As he prepared to take the stage, a nervous Slater recalled Miranda’s advice: “Start quiet, let it build, and make them feel you.” The stage transformed into a sunset savannah with warm amber lights and a star-filled backdrop. Dressed simply in a white shirt and pants with his guitar by his side, he exuded a calm confidence.
Slater’s voice was soft and gentle as he began the first verse: “There’s a calm surrender to the rush of day.” His soulful tone, with a subtle southern twang, drew the audience into the song’s romantic story. His voice grew stronger as he reached the chorus, filling the theater with emotion. He connected with the audience just as Miranda had suggested, his sincere eyes creating a powerful bond.
A Moment of Redemption
The judges, including Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie, watched intently. Carrie leaned forward, praising his comfort with the guitar, while Luke nodded in approval of his authenticity.
During the second verse, Slater momentarily forgot a few lines. The judges noticed, but he quickly recovered, his voice becoming even more solid as he leaned into the emotional climax of the song. The second half of his performance was raw, powerful, and honest. Slater surprised the audience with a harmonica solo, a nod to his earlier performance of Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,” sending the crowd into a cheering frenzy.
Fans on social media were quick to praise his performance. “Slater sounds insane. Give Slater your vote. We need him to be in the top five,” one fan posted.
As the final note faded, the audience rose to their feet for a standing ovation. A smiling Ryan Seacrest announced, “Slater Nollie, ladies and gentlemen!”
The judges were full of praise. “You have a voice for storytelling, and tonight you used it,” said Lionel. “Was that a harmonica? That is a secret weapon.” Carrie added, “I absolutely loved watching your enthusiasm working with Lin-Manuel. Even with that minor setback, you were completely in your element.” Luke was direct and encouraging: “You missed some words, but you recovered like a pro. The power of that second half was enormous.”
An Emotional Exit
Slater’s second performance of the night was a touching tribute to his late stepmother, who had passed away from COVID five years earlier. He sang “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story, with a twangy, heartfelt arrangement that resonated with many. However, some fans felt his song choices were too safe compared to other contestants, like Thunderstorm Artis, who performed an original song.
The tension was palpable as the top five were announced. Despite his stellar performances, Slater Nollie, along with Thunderstorm Artis, was eliminated. The final spots went to John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Briana Nicks. The decision sparked controversy online, with fans calling for more transparency. “I feel Idol ought to post the votes for each singer. It would feel more transparent,” one fan wrote. “Slater is simply great and all of my votes are heading your way. The guy had a real shot.”
Though his American Idol journey came to an end, Slater Nollie’s time on the show was a testament to his talent and resilience. From his tear-jerking audition to his masterful Disney Night performance, the young artist from Atlanta cemented his place as a talented storyteller with a bright future ahead of him. As he told Atlanta Magazine, “As of right now, it appears that music is going to be it for me.”