17-Year-Old Crews Wright Brings Classic Country to ‘American Idol’ with Conway Twitty’s “Goodbye Time” – And Yes, He’s Moving On!

American Idol is heating up, and 17-year-old Crews Wright is making sure traditional country has a seat at the table. During the first round of Hollywood Week, Wright delivered a heartfelt and powerful rendition of Conway Twitty’s 1988 classic “Goodbye Time,” proving that age is just a number—and great country never goes out of style.

Fans first met Wright during his audition in front of Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan, where he wowed the panel with a fiery cover of George Strait’s “The Fireman.” That performance earned him a Golden Ticket to Hollywood, and now, he’s taken things up a notch.

Before taking the stage, Wright told the judges why he deserves to be the next American Idol:

“I believe in keeping traditional country alive. Music isn’t about what’s trending—it’s about what lasts. I try to leave a little piece of me on every stage I walk across.”

Wright’s emotional performance of “Goodbye Time” not only honored Twitty’s legacy (and Blake Shelton’s memorable 2004 cover), but also left the judges visibly stunned.

Luke Bryan joked, “Do you swear you’re 17?” while Carrie Underwood playfully added, “I need to see a birth certificate.”

But it was Bryan’s genuine praise that sealed the moment:

“To pick a Conway Twitty song… I grew up on that and lived it. The fact that you’re 17, and that’s where your heart is with music? That’s pretty cool stuff.”

He continued, “You’re going to grow so fast and have so much to offer. Watching you win the room like that—just awesome.”

So, did Crews Wright make it through to the next round?
Yes, he did.

Watch the video below to see how this young country talent turned a classic into a career-defining moment. It’s hard to believe someone this good is only 17!