American Idol is officially down to the final three, and this season’s hometown visits brought rising star Jordan McCullough back to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on Wednesday for a parade and concert.
From a 27-year-old worship leader to a TV star, McCullough has used his talents to impress judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and ultimately America.
After visits to his alma mater John Pittard Elementary School, Oakland Middle and High School, the vocalist joined fans for a parade around the square, then a concert at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex.
A parade of adoration
Before the concert, fans gathered around the Rutherford County Courthouse in anticipation of McCullough’s arrival. Although it was raining, people huddled in front of storefronts, under umbrellas and even found shelter under trees to share their support of the finalist.
The Siegel High School band led the parade, with cars featuring signs from Keller Williams Realty and Donut Country trailing behind them. As the vehicles passed by, the sounds of Siegel faded as the Oakland High School Band took over the street.
Finally, Murfreesboro Fire Rescue drove past the crowd, leading the way for McCullough, riding in the back of a crisp white Mustang convertible sponsored by Ford of Murfreesboro.
As the Mustang drove past, someone fired a confetti cannon, and cheers and shouts of adoration rose from the crowds, while the local singer smiled and waved to fans.
A concert of thankfulness
With the rain continuing to pour, parade-goers left the square and maneuvered their way through traffic to the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex, which had been transformed into a concert venue.
As attendees walked into the complex, they were treated to a mid-sized stage set up at the front of the field, along with a graphic stating “The City of Murfreesboro loves Jordan McCullough.” The crowd was full of joy and anticipation, with many holding signs and even fans featuring the finalist’s picture.
After several crowd shots by the American Idol team, the artist’s six brothers were led onto the stage to bring out McCullough. As the singer walked up with his hand on his heart, he wasn’t the only one feeling the love from the audience.
“To come back home to this, to see how well the city turned out for him — the city’s behind him,” Laran McCullough, Jordan’s father, said. “I know he loves it — I love it. This is going to drive him over the edge.”
McCullough showed his love for the crowd through his voice, opening with a soulful version of “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” by U2. From the very first note, the singer proved to his hometown why he was chosen for the top three.
Bringing beautifully blended riffs and a joyful presence, the 27-year-old is making a statement on the power of faith and remembering where you came from.
“I think he’s got a really good shot at winning this thing,” Laran McCullough said. “If he just continues to do what he’s doing and stay humble, stay grounded and just keep singing the way God wants him to sing.”
His son did just that, leading the crowd with style through tracks including “Grandma’s Hands” by Bill Withers, “Goodness of God” by Bethel Music, “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe and “Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey.
McCullough ended the night asking the audience if they knew where he “could find somebody to love,” introducing the classic rock hit, “Somebody to Love” by Queen. He wailed on the song and hit the top notes with ease.
Along with his performance, Mayor Shane McFarland, along with three other City Council members, awarded McCullough with a key to the city and officially named May 6, “Jordan McCullough Day” in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
The concert turned out to be the perfect way not only to celebrate the finalist, but also to show him how much backing and support he truly has.
Fans of the artist can catch the season finale on May 11 at 7 p.m. on ABC.
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