Congratulations, Maddie Poppe! The 19-year-old songstress was crowned winner of American Idol‘s 16th season during the live finale on Monday, May 21.
The Iowa native won over America and judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie throughout season 16.
“There were definitely so many moments where I was going to give up,” she said at the semifinals on Sunday. “I wish I could go back and tell myself, ‘It’s going to be alright, you just wait!'”
The singer, who is known for her soothing vocals, even secured a vote from judge Katy Perry. After performing a rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide,” Perry pulled out her phone and said, “I’m voting for you.” She later told reporters after the show “No one said I couldn’t!”
Monday’s finale also included performances from Richie, Perry and Bryan, as well as Bebe Rexha, Darius Rucker, Gary Clark Jr., Nick Jonas and Mustard, Patti LaBelle, Yolanda Adams, Kermit the Frog, and the top 10 finalists.
Congrats, Maddie!