Kentucky in Hollywood: Alyssa Wray makes American Idol top 24

Photo: Christopher Willard, ABC

Well, it looks like we’ll be keeping up with budding Perryville superstar Alyssa Wray a little longer under the big lights of American Idol. After another knockout showing performing “I’m Here” from the musical version of The Color Purple, she learned from the judges that she’s earned a spot in the show’s top 24. She was Sunday night’s first featured singer, and the episode wasted no time putting her through to the next round. Check out her incredible performance:

Unfortunately for our other favorite young Kentucky crooner, Alex Miller’s time on the show came to an end just before the round of 24. To absolutely no one’s surprise, Alex handled the rejection like a gentleman and vowed to keep working on his craft.

But all was not lost for the Hank-ster of Lanc-ster — Luke Bryan followed through with his audition promise, made some calls, and invited Alex to live out his dream and join him on stage at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Take a look:

Honestly, can you imagine a better outcome? Standing on that stage is the dream of every young country artist, and having his Idol journey culminate in that opportunity has to be just the coolest feeling in the world. It’s a fitting reward for the nicest young man who made the Bluegrass extremely proud.