“American Idol” Finalists Reunite for Star-Studded Nashville Concert—But One Fan-Favorite Is Missing

Fans of American Idol Season 23 are gearing up for a major reunion concert, as many of the show’s top contestants return to the stage for one special night in Nashville. Set for June 4, 2025, the 19/BMG Takeover concert promises to be a powerhouse of talent—but one surprising absence is already stirring up fan speculation.

Season 23’s Top Finalists Reunite for 19/BMG Concert

Just ahead of CMA Fest, American Idol’s label partner 19 Recordings will host its annual showcase at 6th & Peabody in downtown Nashville. The concert lineup includes some of Season 23’s biggest stars:

• Jamal Roberts, the season’s winner

• John Foster, runner-up

• Breanna Nix, third-place finisher

• Finalists Thunderstorm Artis, Gabby Samone, Mattie Pruitt, and Kolbi Jordan

The June 4 concert will run from 4 to 8 p.m. and be hosted by Josh Randall, senior casting producer for American Idol and the show’s longtime studio warm-up host.

 

Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an

 

Ein Beitrag geteilt von American Idol (@americanidol)

Slater Nalley’s Absence Raises Questions

While fans are thrilled about the upcoming reunion, many quickly noticed one key absence: Slater Nalley. The 18-year-old singer made it into the Top 5 on American Idol 2025 and quickly became a fan favorite with his soulful performances and unique style.

Nalley recently signed a management deal with Play It Again Music, a separate agency outside of 19 Recordings. While the details haven’t been made public, many believe this decision may have led to his exclusion from the concert lineup, since the event is produced by the label and its affiliate, BMG.

On social media, fans have begun to share their own theories, with one Reddit user posting:

“He’s probably not allowed due to contract stuff… but it’s a bummer he won’t be there. He was one of the most exciting artists on the show.”

Who Else Will Be Performing?

The concert will also include performances from stars of past American Idol seasons, all of whom are currently signed with 19 Recordings or BMG:

• Will Moseley (Season 22 runner-up)

• Ajii (Season 22 finalist)

• Colin Stough (Season 21, third place)

• Wé Ani (Season 21 finalist)

• HunterGirl (Season 20 runner-up)

Meanwhile, Haven Madison (Season 21) and Chayce Beckham (Season 19 winner) are both signed to BMG but will not appear. Beckham is touring and scheduled to perform in Delaware on June 4.

Recent Finalists Prepare for Major Solo Performances

The excitement doesn’t end with the reunion concert. Multiple contestants are hitting the road this summer:

• Jamal Roberts will perform a hometown show in Meridian, Mississippi, on May 31, followed by stops in Nashville (August 15) and Biloxi (September 19).

• Breanna Nix will make her Grand Ole Opry debut on June 5, sharing the stage with Jelly Roll and Steven Curtis Chapman.

• John Foster is scheduled to appear at the Opry on June 7, alongside Craig Morgan, Bill Anderson, and other country legends.