Here’s why I believe Thunderstorm Artis is a strong contender to win American Idol Season 23
Disclaimer: This American Idol article is based on the writer’s opinion. Reader discretion is advised.
American Idol Season 23 is advancing towards its highly anticipated finale as artists with extraordinary talent and skills are moving forward. The April 28, 2025, episode of the reality show featured the Top 10 participants chosen after the Top 12 delivered their performances.
One of the Top 10 artists on American Idol Season 23 includes Thunderstorm Artis, a 29-year-old musician from Haleiwa, HI. As featured on the twelfth episode of the ABC show, Hawaii-native Thunderstorm Artis performed James Taylor’s Fire and Rain. After getting appreciation from the judges, he was chosen as one of the Top 10 contestants.
Throughout his journey on the show, Thunderstorm Artis has delivered many impressive performances. Witnessing his skills and his on-stage performance, he has built a strong fan base. Fans might already know, he has also been on another singing competition show, The Voice.
However, it was in 2020, and as Thunderstorm feels has been working as a musician, over the years, he decided to be on American Idol. Seeing his performances, until now, he seems to have a lot of potential. With that being said, he truly is a strong contender to win American Idol Season 23.
American Idol Season 23: Thunderstorm Artis – an impressive artist with experience that might lead him towards winning
Thunderstorm Artis’s website describes him as a songwriter, singer and multi-instrumentalist. He was born and raised in a “large musical family”, and he was also a finalist on The Voice Season 18.
During his time on the show, one of the panelists, John Legend, described his tone as “magical.’ He has performed alongside renowned artists including Jack Johnson and Train, and more.
Belonging to a musical family makes a significant impact on an individual, and with their own touch added to that, turns them into an impressive artist. Thunderstorm Artis is one such gem who is currently writing his story on American Idol Season 23.
One after another, impressive performances have led him to the Top 10, and it seems like he continues to win hearts and build a huge fan following. Since his time on The Voice, he has been quite a popular artist. Now, with his recent participation on American Idol, he has once again shown his skills.
In his April 28, 2025, interview with Parade magazine, the artist recalled his journey on The Voice and how it differed from his current participation on American Idol Season 23.
“It was an amazing experience. It really helped shape me in my younger years. Now, five years later, I just feel like I’m a different man and a different artist, and I’m looking forward to saying, Hey, America, do you remember me? and just showing them who I am.”
His most recent performance was during the American Idol Season 23 Episode 12, where Carrie told him he sang “unabashedly.” Lionel Richie stated that it was a “masterful job.”
“It had hints of James Taylor, but a lot of you. Way to be you!”
Getting such high praise for his Fire and Rain by James Taylor performance, Thunderstorm is one of the stronger contenders towards the upcoming finale. Continuing with such impactful performance, he might be on his way towards winning the competition.
ABC airs new episodes of American Idol Season 23 every Sunday and Monday.
