American Idol Noah Thompson To Debut at Grand Ole Opry May 31
Country singer and American Idol Season 20 winner Noah Thompson received an unexpected opportunity to advance his music career after returning to the American Idol stage on May 19. In a moment full of emotion, country star Carrie Underwood, who is also Thompson’s former mentor, revealed that he would make his Grand Ole Opry debut on May 31.
For the Kentucky native, his dreams quickly turned into a reality. “Getting to come back to [American] Idol, where it all started for me, and then to find out I’m playing the Opry – I don’t even have the words. This is cool. See y’all on the 31st.” said Thompson
Thompson also celebrated the release of his brand-new EP, Kids Like Me, which was released on May 16.
The EP features six heartfelt tracks that highlight Thompson’s authentic storytelling and showcase his signature raspy vocals. This musical release explores small-town adversity, perseverance, and resilience – experiences that have helped guide Thompson as he hones his true-hearted craft.
Here’s a breakdown of each track:
Kids Like Me - “Kids Like Me” is a raw, autobiographical anthem Thompson penned with Luke Preston and Blake Chaffin. As the first song he wrote after stepping out independently, it became the creative spark that led the way for all the music he’s released since. With lines like “so what we grew up too fast… we know how to spray paint brown grass green,” the song pays tribute to the grit, resilience, and unshakable hope of a generation forced to grow up too soon. It’s a powerful, no-apologies look back — and a defining moment in Noah’s evolution as a songwriter and storyteller.
American Dream - “American Dream,” written by Chris Gelbudda, Steven Lee Olson and Daniel Tashian, powerfully captures the often-overlooked struggles that accompany the American dream. The poignant first verse highlights a family's turmoil as parents grapple with the financial burden of sending their daughter to rehab. Meanwhile, a man finds himself in a relationship marked by obligation rather than love, and a young woman battles food insecurity amidst crushing student loans. The narrative deepens as a soldier returns home, facing his demons alone, unable to access the VA services he desperately needs. A very hard to watch but realistic view of some folks’ “American Dream,” is portrayed in the music video that was just released for the song.
Demons In My Whiskey - “Demons in My Whiskey,” written by Thompson, Kasey Tyndall and Lukas Scott, is a profoundly evocative song inspired by the loss of a close friend to the demons of alcoholism. This poignant track conceded with Thompson's launch of the Mobilize Recovery bus tour in Los Angeles and was featured in a nationwide iHeart radio PSA for Recovery Month in September.
Upbringing - “Upbringing,” co-written with Lalo Guzman and Josh Dorr, and produced by Lukas Scott, is not just a song but a significant artistic statement as Thompson’s debut as an independent artist. The track emerges from a profound period of self-discovery and emotional struggle, reflecting a transformative chapter in his life and career.
What You’re Made Of - "What You’re Made Of," penned by Thompson, Scott Stepakoff and Blake Chaffin, delivers a powerful message of resilience and perseverance that is universally relatable and evident in its support by fans and industry alike. The upbeat anthem, produced by Eric Arjes, features Thompson’s signature mix of soulful authenticity and country charm that delivers a message that is both inspiring and relatable.
Here Lately - Here Lately, written by Thompson, Nick Columbia and Lukas Scott, explores the emotional journey of losing oneself and the powerful, often painful, path to rediscovery. With raw lyrics and a soulful melody, the American Idol winner opens up about the struggles of feeling lost and disconnected, only to find hope and clarity in the process of self-reflection. Through introspective storytelling and his signature emotive vocals, Thompson captures the delicate balance of despair and resilience, reminding listeners that even in our lowest moments, there's always a chance to find our way back to who we are.
Since winning American Idol in 2022, Thompson has successfully built a passionate fanbase with his raw performances and relatable songwriting. Kids Like Me marks a milestone in his musical career that fans have eagerly awaited.
About Noah Thompson
Some may recognize Thompson as the winner of American Idol Season 20 (2022), his hit song “One Day Tonight” and various accolades surrounding those, but Thompson’s influence goes beyond just being an artist. With having over 100 million streams across multiple platforms Thompson has become comfortable with embracing his true authentic self, throughout his music journey.
As a father, Thompson has found motivation not only in making music but in his soon-to-be 4-year-old son, Walker. Two years ago Thompson found it a challenge to grasp his artistic rhythm, but in just two years he is now accustomed to writing his own songs and collaborates with country superstars, such as Luke Combs. Thompson appears in Luke’s 2024 album Father & Sons, where he wrote the song “Front Door Famous.”
Through these experiences, Thompson channels his deep love for music to inspire his fans. His EP Kids Like It features the raw and vulnerable title track, “Upbringing,” a verbal, hauntingly honest autobiographical account of Thompson’s life, the tribute to a late friend song “Demons In My Whiskey,” the well-written relatable story of the daily struggle in “American Dream,” the hopeful and encouraging “Here Lately,” and “What You’re Made Of.” These songs are a big statement both musically and personally.
Thompson will continue to share his stories through songwriting, building an audience that can relate to his music. With full control over his career, he is excited about what’s next and plans to build on his success while empowering his fans.