Kya Monee Pays Tribute to Runner-Up Willie Spence in American Idol

In honor of her late friend and previous participant Willie Spence, “American Idol” contestant Kya Monee went to the assessment room on Sunday during the Season 21 debut of the singing competition reality show.

On the Season 21 debut of “American Idol,” singer Kya Monee pays tribute to the late runner-up Willie Spence

When they co-starr on Season 19 of “Idol” in 2021, Monee’ and Spence. Who was fatally injuring in a car collision in Tennessee in October 2022—were paired up as duet singers during Hollywood week.

Monee’ stated to judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie that her and Spence “developed a very, very strong bond”

 And that she is still “trying to cope” with the loss when standing in the assessment room once more on Sunday. It’s incredibly difficult to not have that support any more, but I know that he would want me to be here and keep pushing. Monee says, adding that “he was actually mean to be here with me today for my audition.”

Monee’ performed “I’m Here” from the stage production of “The Color Purple” while sobbing, revealing that she and Spence chose it jointly.

Perry remarked, “That’s how you sing through sobbing,” following the performance.

While everyone is mourning Spence’s passing, Perry stated, the judges. “feel bondage together” because Monee was genuine “just as he was.”

The judges advanced Monee’ to the next round as Spence’s cover of Rihanna’s “Diamonds” played in the background. As she held up her golden ticket and thanked Willie for not letting her give up. The singer wiped away her tears and smiled. I’m giving it to you.

When a 2017 video of him singing the song went viral, Spence submitted an application for “Idol” in 2021 with the song “Diamonds.” Spence advanced through every round to finish as the Season 19 runner-up behind Chayce Beckham, the eventual winner.

On Sunday’s Season 21 premiere, a heartfelt tribute montage playing as Richie was hearing praising Spence as a “beautiful angel.” and “beacon of what ‘American Idol’ is all about.” The sad episode ends with a title card that read. “In loving memory of Willie Spence 1999-2022.”

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