IDOL: Kyndal Takes A Chance With Gutsy “Piece Of My Heart” Cover
Kyndal covered "Piece of My Heart" on "American Idol" for the show's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-themed night. (Photo Credits: ABC / American Idol via YouTube)
American Idol Contestant Kyndal Inskeep Revives “Piece Of My Heart”
Kyndal Inskeep had a tough week as she prepared to sing “Piece of My Heart” on American Idol. Despite that, the singer took a chance and challenged herself with her performance.
Idol hosted a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-themed evening on Monday, April 13th. Each contestant performed a rock song, and the newest inductees into the Hall were announced during the episode.
Kyndal was having a tough time in rehearsals and didn’t know which song she wanted to sing. She considered two tracks: Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart” and The Police’s “Message in a Bottle.”
Although mentor Neil Giraldo encouraged her to sing the latter song, she ultimately chose the former.
RELATED: KYNDAL INSKEEP ENTHRALLS WITH UNIQUE SPIN ON “NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD OF JESUS”
“Piece of My Heart” was originally recorded and released by Gospel and soul singer Erma Franklin in 1967. Then, Janis Joplin’s band, Big Brother and the Holding Company, released their cover the following year, with Joplin on lead vocals.
The track became one of Joplin’s signature songs and has since been certified Platinum by the RIAA.
“Piece of My Heart” gained a country music connection when Faith Hill covered the tune for her debut album in 1993. She released her version as a single in January 1994, and it reached #1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.
Did Kyndal Advance To The Top 9 On American Idol?
Despite the tough week she had in rehearsals, Kyndal showcased her determination through her cover of “Piece of My Heart” on Idol. Her performance was gutsy and gritty (in a good way), and she strove to stay connected with the crowd throughout the song.
However, when it came time for the judges to offer their commentary, Carrie Underwood noted that the performance seemed “deflated” compared to others she’s seen from Kyndal. When Kyndal explained it had been a “weird” week for her voice, Underwood said:
“You have such an incredible instrument, or you wouldn’t be standing here on this stage. I just kind of felt like you gave up on yourself a little bit towards the end…it started out energetic and then it just kind of deflated…it was more about your attitude toward it, your voice is amazing.”
Luke Bryan applauded Kyndal for battling through her struggles, saying, “We all have our rough voice weeks…I do believe you picked the perfect song…way to get through it.”
Lionel Richie closed out the commentary, saying, “It happens to all of us, our brain gets involved with our throat…you did a great job, don’t let that get in your way.”
So, did Kyndal manage to secure a spot in the Top 9 after that performance? The answer is…YES!
The next time Idol viewers see Kyndal, she’ll be performing during Disney night on April 20. In the meantime, check out her cover of “Piece of My Heart” in the video below.
