Teen Catie Turner is a true original on Idol, wowing judges with “spectacular” songwriting

Now and again, a musician comes along who is a true original, and those are the ones who can create something truly spectacular with their songs. This was definitely the case with 17-year-old Catie Turner, who blew the judges away with her unique original song “21st Century Machine”. Right out of the gate, Turner made an impression on the judges, running into the room with childlike enthusiasm and wonder.Katy Perry responded to this immediately and declared, “I love you so much!” Turner then declared her love for the pop legend, and then traded some witty lines with the judges, creating a breezy energy in the room. She then performed “21st Century Machine,” which she said was about how “media affected me when I was an impressionable child.” Turner accompanied herself on an acoustic guitar on the upbeat folk song, and her distinctive voice really brought out the story behind the lyrics. 

Turner’s audition gained 6.2 million views on YouTube, making it the third most popular video in the history of the show. The judges immediately recognized that they had just witnessed something very special. Perry opened the judges’ comments by saying, “That is such a good song. You’re a spectacular songwriter. I love where your mind is at.”

Luke Bryan kept the praise coming, telling Turner that, “You are interesting and brilliant beyond your years.” Lionel Richie chimed in last and said, “I love the sound of your voice. I cannot tell you how wonderful it is to see you. I’m just fascinated with your brain and your writing is crazy great.” The judges then took a vote and gave Turner three yes votes, prompting the teen to celebrate tearfully with her family. Later in the season, Turner performed Blondie’s “Call Me” with a band.

Fans online couldn’t get enough of Turner’s talent, adding comments such as “She is an actual writing genius. Those voice cracks make her better than ever!” and “So innocent, funny and pure – her authentic self. Love her as a role model for everyone really. Such a great song and it can already be a hit in my opinion.”

Turner performed a series of cover songs later on her journey on series 16 of American Idol. She eventually progressed to the top seven, where she was eliminated after her performance of Britney Spears’ “Oops!… I Did It Again” and The Bangles’ “Manic Monday”. She has since signed with Atlantic Records and built a career as an original artist.

For more incredible music and updates, feel free to subscribe to Catie Turner’s YouTube Channel or follow her on Instagram. Her unique style and enchanting performances never fail to resonate with her audience.