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“Go after your dreams, do it scared and trust the process.” –Noah Thompson

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BY PHILL BARNETT
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

Noah Thompson emerged victorious on Sunday night’s season finale of “American Idol.” From his powerhouse performances to his humble victory speech, Thompson stayed true to himself for the Season 20 final episode.

The singing competition’s final episode was a grand celebration featuring performances from famous musicians and the contestants from this season’s Top 10.

Each of the remaining three performers performed a Bruce Springsteen classic. Thompson performed “I’m On Fire.”

Each of the three finalists travelled to their hometown over the past week with an “American Idol” crew, documenting a homecoming celebration in each of their hometowns. Thompson travelled to Louisa last Tuesday and Wednesday.

“American Idol” featured a Mountain Citizen photo of Thompson with Kristofer Lee Bentley and Don Rigsby at the unveiling of the “Home of Country Music’s Noah Thompson” sign on US-23.

In the segment, Kristofer Lee Bentley encourages Thompson to keep chasing his dreams and taking opportunities. “I know your buddy got you into it but you had to say yes. You kept saying yes, man.”

When American Idol asked Thompson’s friend Arthur Johnson why he signed him up for the show, he replied bluntly. “Because he wouldn’t have signed his self up.”

During his time in Louisa, Noah got to see his family and friends, which he has missed the most about home. Noah visited his work buddies at ARC in Louisa, where he was filmed doing some light drywalling.

“You went from working on the ARC, Noah,” Katy Perry said, pointing out a humorous connection to the story of Noah’s Ark while highlighting how much Thompson’s life has changed over the past few months.

After Thompson’s homecoming segment was aired, he performed his debut single “One Day Tonight” live.

Leah Marlene was eliminated after the first two rounds of Sunday night’s show, leaving Thompson and HunterGirl competing for the top spot.

Thompson also performed “I’m the Only One” with Melissa Etheridge and his final performance before the winner was announced was “Stay” by Rihanna, the song he sang in the Hollywood Showstopper round.

Judges and viewers have been enamored with Thompson’s talent and shy, humble demeanor since his first audition.

“You are the American Dream” Katy Perry said the first time she heard Thompson sing.

“You’re why this job is cool,” added Luke Bryan.

“You got a real-life storytelling, badass voice,” said Lionel Richie.

Over 16 million viewers voted on Sunday night. Ryan Seacrest announced moments before the end of the broadcast that viewers had selected Noah Thompson to be the next American Idol.

“My heart is beating out of my chest. This is crazy.” Thompson said when Ryan Seacrest asked how he felt after winning.

Thompson then had to immediately perform his single “One Day Tonight” again to close out the show.