By Jake Fogal
BLOOMINGTON – The singing sensation from Normal, Illinois is nearing closer to the top spot on American Idol. Leah Marlene is in the Top 7 of the singing competition, and hopes to continue her run into the Top 5 and beyond.
The golden ticket was put in Marlene’s hand nearly two months ago, and since then she has wowed viewers all across the country. A year ago though, this didn’t seem possible.
Marlene notes she had dropped out of college and struggled with her mental health. She moved back home to Normal from Nashville, and just wanted to escape.
Her plans included backpacking across Southeast Asia and Europe. When this opportunity fell at her feet, Marlene says it challenged everything she had previously gone through.
“I very much did not plan on going on a singing show. All throughout high school and college it did not seem like the path for me,” Marlene said.
“It was so weird when this opportunity came around, I just had this tiny gut feeling, where I was like ‘Why the heck not, let’s just audition for the producers and see what happens.’ That’s how this whole thing has been every step of the way. Let’s have fun and whatever happens, happens.”
Viewers only see Leah on TV two days a week, and she says each day is usually 12+ hours of work. Marlene mentioned it can be overwhelming, but she’s very grateful.
The final three contestants selected on American Idol get to bring a parade back to their hometown, and Marlene calls that the biggest dream that could come true.
The 20-year old says that the support she’s received has been mind-blowing.
“The biggest reason I want to make it into the Top 3 is to be able to come home and celebrate with everybody. Also making it into the Top 3 would be cool in other way’s too,” Marlene laughed.
“It’s completely up to y’all! At this point every single person deserves to be here, deserves to win this show. I am just going to continue putting one foot in front of the other and whatever America votes is what’s meant to happen.”
If Marlene advances into the Top 5, Unit 5 is planning a watch party on May 15 to cheer Leah on. Catch Leah back on the American Idol stage this coming Sunday at 7:00 PM on Heart of Illinois ABC.
Jake Fogal can be reached at [email protected].
