Aretha Franklin’s granddaughter Grace didn’t get past the audition stage on “American Idol.” This came as a shock to viewers; even judge Katy Perry did not see it coming. She had a great voice, but the other judges insisted that there was something missing — Lionel Richie actually advised her to “put the shyness behind you” (via Complex).
Appearing with her dad Kecalf Cunningham for an interview with TMZ, the 16-year-old finally spoke about her failed audition. She stated that, although she was disappointed, Richie’s advice helped her see the positives of her rejection. She added that she agreed with the judges’ decision, and that she was able to get much-needed exposure from the appearance. According to Grace, producers and artists have been reaching out in hopes of collaborating. “I’m a good artist, I know that,” she said. “But I do know I need to work on some things.”
However, you likely won’t be seeing her face on “American Idol” in the future. She stated that auditioning for the show again was unlikely. The budding star would rather focus on releasing her own music and working on her voice.
