American Idol contestant Tanner Charles did the unthinkable on Sunday (March 5).
Videos by American Songwriter
He sang a song he wrote for his girlfriend on the show’s broadcast and in front of the show’s world-famous judges, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.
“The question is,” said girlfriend Delaney Blaylock when the segment began. “What am I doing in here?”
Then she went by the piano in the audition room as Charles set up and got ready to play.
“How long have you been dating?” asked Perry.
“A little over a year,” said Blaylock.
“Are you in?” Perry asked, heightening the pressure in the room.
“Are we talking marriage here?” asked Blaylock to Charles. That’s when the room exploded with laughter.
“This is a song I wrote for you,” said Charles. “I was going to give it to you on your birthday next week. But this is different, so I’ll give it to you now.”
Charles sat at the piano and began to play. “This song is called ‘Golden Eyes,’ because her eyes are super golden!” he said. “You need to get a look at them when you get a chance.”
The song itself was tilting, beautiful and heartfelt. The Oklahoma native’s voice was raspy, loving and passionate—albeit a little shaky with nerves. It drew applause and even a quick stank face from Perry and a few fake tears.
When I look at you I seem to get so lost / In your golden eyes / It’s no surprise / And I won’t let you go tonight / I don’t want to leave / I don’t want to be so far apart / My world has never known / A love that brings me home / A love so meant to be / But time has made me see / That I won’t let you go tonight,” Charles sang.
“I wish someone loved me like that,” mouthed Perry.
Check out the performance, which earned positive reviews from the judges, below.
Photo: ABC/Eric McCandless
