Three local singers vying for 'American Idol's' top 10

Three area music artists who advanced to the top 20 of season 18 of "American Idol" on ABC returned to their homes to perform in the Sunday, April 26, episode of the show for a chance to move into the top 10.

Due to the coronavirus outbreak and social distancing restrictions, all 20 of the contestants were sent home to prepare for the next round of the competition. Each of the contestants was sent the same equipment to set up in their homes for their performance.

One of two high school singers, Olivia Ximines of Menifee, went first for the locals, performing in what appeared to be her living room.

Ximines performed a cover of "Bad Guy" by Billie Eilish, and when it was over, her parents rushed to congratulate her.

"You know, for 16 years old, you have everything to be a superstar," judge Lionel Richie said.

"What I loved about this performance, in particular, is I got to hear the quality of your voice even more," judge Katie Perry said. "It was like getting to know another side of you."

Judge Luke Bryant said he loved how she "always brings the show."

Ximines said she comes alive when she gets onstage, but performing at home meant she had to pump herself up for the performance.

"When I'm in my living room, I had to really, like, pump myself up before," she said.

Fellow high schooler, Makayla Phillips of Temecula performed "Greedy" by Ariana Grande, also in her living room.

"It just looks so natural for you; it was so cool," judge Katie Perry told Phillips after her performance.

"I really love the star power and vocals at the end of the song," judge Luke Bryant said.

Murrieta's Jonny West sang from his home in Studio City and performed a sentimental version of Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World."

"I heard so many things. Just don't stop your music journey, no matter what happens, please," Bryant said.

"You have an arsenal, a vocal arsenal, musical chops arsenal, writer, you have it all," Richie said.

Perry said West could have an advantage if the show continues to film from home because it highlights West's subtleties.

"Top two favorite performances today," she said.

West said he picked the song before the coronavirus outbreak happened and he thought that now it fits more than ever.

"I feel like this is the perfect way to be like this is what's waiting for us outside of here once all this clears up," West said. "And it will. So, I'm just happy to be here and blessed to be here."

Voting continued throughout Sunday night and ended Monday, April 27, at 6 a.m. The results of the voting and the announcement of which artists will move into the top 10 will be revealed at 8 p.m. Sunday, May 3, in the next episode of the show.

Jeff Pack can be reached by email at [email protected].