Huntington Quarterly Summer 2022

got that bluegrass, soulful vibe. He just embodies his own genre, and that’s what I love about it. I’d like to be like that and do my own thing — and whichever way it goes, well, that’s how it goes.” With his new single One Day Tonight now available for streaming after its live debut on the American Idol stage, Thompson said he feels like this song was the perfect first song for him to release, with hopes to release more in the future. “One of the most exciting parts of the experience was going into the studio and recording that song. It was somuch fun, and at that point, it didn’t feel like a job. OneDayTonight just felt like a hit the more I listened to the words, and it seemed to really resonate with people,” Thompson said. “I’m looking forward to sitting down and trying to write some good songs of my own, then hit the road and play some shows.”

former addicts that have turned their lives around really impacted me. They are the biggest reason I was even on American Idol because they kept pushing me to post videos of myself singing and to pursue the opportunity. They all love music and have let music heal them in a way. Music helps us all get through everyday life.” Luckily for Thompson, music has been in his everyday life for as long as he can remember. “I grew up with my dad who was in a band, so I’ve been aroundmusic my entire life. He always had a gui tar in his hand, singing and writing songs. I grew up with all types of music. I grew up more with rock, and not just country, so I think it surprises people when I tell them that I’m open to all genres of music. I love Southern rock, and I love the blues. I think that’s why I’m such a Chris Stapleton fan because he’s

“ I knew going into this that I wanted to stick to my roots . I ’ m not willing to change who I am for fame . I want to stay humble , and I think a lot of people can relate to that .” - Noah Thompson

From left: Host Ryan Seacrest, finalist HunterGirl and Noah Thompson moments before Noah was announced the winner of American Idol .

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