Luke Bryan applauded a “crazy talented” performance during American Idol auditions.

Sheldon Riley, 26, from Melbourne, Australia, shared a story about his journey in music, including his experience on a TV show in Australia. “I sung my song, and they said it wasn’t quite enough. ‘Just you singing, it’s not enough,’” he recalled to judges Bryan, Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie. Riley explained he endured self-doubt, and performed as a character in elaborate wardrobe pieces and masks. It “took off like crazy,” and opened doors for opportunities around the world. His looks on stage got “crazier and crazier” as he continued his run on TV competition shows; however, after returning home and removing the masks and the makeup, “I would hate the person I saw in the mirror. Hated that version of me.”

Riley said he took two years off, and reflected on the moment that started his passion for performing. He determined he would audition for Idol as his authentic self. Underwood assured Riley that everyone has “their version” of hiding behind a “mask,” and worrying whether they’re enough without that identity. Riley went on to deliver a powerful rendition of “Brother,” by Australian artist Matt Corby.

“You’re crazy talented. Crazy unbelievable,” Bryan praised. “Don’t know why you ever had to wear the mask because you’re an amazing-looking person. You being the loudest guy in the room, you don’t always have to be that. Being the most dynamic singer in the room, you don’t have to be that. It’s OK to just peel a layer off. But that was impressive.”

Richie echoed, “you’re an artist, man. And you’re authentic. I love watching someone in their moment. You have stage presence. It’s all there. Accept you. Embrace you.”

“I’m really glad you’re here. I love your voice,” Underwood said. The three judges unanimously voted Riley through to Hollywood Week, which is taking place in Nashville for the first time this season. American Idol airs on ABC on Monday nights from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET/PT. It’s available to stream the next day on Hulu.

Bryan joined the star-studded lineup of the 2026 iHeartCountry Festival as of Tuesday morning (February 3). The show also includes Kane Brown, Parker McCollum, Riley Green, Shaboozey, Dylan Scott, Russell Dickerson, Gretchen Wilson, Chase Matthew and Lauren Alaina. iHeartRadio's Bobby Bones is returning as the event’s host. The show will take place on May 2 at Moody Center in Austin, Texas. Tickets to the show are available as of January 23. Fans across the country will be able to catch all the action as the 2026 iHeartCountry Festival will be broadcast live across iHeartCountry stations nationwide and the free iHeartRadio app on Saturday, May 2nd at 8pm ET/5pm PT (7pm CT).

Watch Riley’s audition here:

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Michelle Buckles