Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Olivia Ximines, 16, of Orange Vista High School in Perris, Calif., listens to the judges’ feedback on American Idol Season 18. (ABC Photo)

And as it turned out, they all got to perform a dance routine for Idol’s celebrity judges.

But only Olivia got to sing afterwards. And her cover of Tori Kelly’s “Language” impressed the judges so much that she unanimously advanced to Hollywood. And that Katy Perry compared her to a young Brandy.

Here’s what Olivia, a 16-year-old junior at Orange Vista, told Idol Chatter about that blind audition experience.

Idol Chatter: How did you wind up auditioning for American Idol Season 3 and what prompted you to do it this year, especially as such a young age?

Olivia: I was sent a message through Instagram asking if I wanted to audition for American Idol. At first I thought it was fake, but then I went with my gut and I took the chance and it was one of the best decisions I have made because it led me to where I am at now. I have always dreamed of myself on American Idol, but I never thought it would actually happen and it honestly feels like I’m still dreaming

Idol Chatter: Why did you choose “Language” for your audition song? What’s your performance history with that song (for instance, is it one you’ve performed often)?

Olivia: I chose “Language” by Tori Kelly because I felt like I had a great connection with the song. I really enjoyed the soulful beginning into the groovy verse. Oh (!) and my vocal coach coached Tori Kelly for many years so I got introduced to it by him.

Idol Chatter: Did it help having your dance team there in support and, if so, in what way? How did they wind up doing that dance routine with you?

Olivia: It was definitely a little bit more relieving that my dance team could be in there with me because I am very comfortable around them and they always give me positive energy! They were asked to dance in front of the judges almost right before I was about to go in, and they were all shocked and surprised, but super excited! So I was able to dance with them before I sang, which surprisingly didn’t make me lose my breathe while singing.

Idol Chatter: What was that audition experience like and what type of reaction have you gotten since it aired?

Olivia: That audition experience was something that I will never forget and since then I have learned so much about singing that I am truly grateful for. I have also gotten so much positive feedback since my audition and a lot of support from my friends, family, and school.

Idol Chatter: Prior to Idol, what experience do you have as a solo singer? What’s the biggest thing you’d done prior to the show?

Olivia: Two years before Idol, I started going to my vocal coach and that has led me to sing at the Angels game a couple of times!

Editor’s Note: American Idol will air one more audition episode Sunday night. Then, on Monday, it’s off to Hollywood for all the golden ticket recipients.