Olivia Ximines talks about her American Idol experience

American Idol

Olivia Ximines talks about her American Idol experience

May 7, 2020 By Mark Franklin 0

Olivia Ximines after her Top 20 at-home performance on American Idol. (ABC Photo)

Olivia Ximines posted a social media message to fans after failing to advance past the Top 20 Sunday night.

“I know you all are probably expecting this to be a sad long paragraph (lol),” she writes. “But trust me, it’s just going to be long.”

Just 16, Olivia made an immediate impression on Idol when she showed up for the audition with a routine that included her dance team from Orange Vista High School in California.

She wound up with a unanimous golden ticket and just kept right on impressing, especially with a sassy, spirited performance of “Proud Mary” in the Top 40 showcase.

Here’s what Olivia told Idol Chatter about her time on the show.

Idol Chatter: What do you consider your biggest takeaway / lesson learned from the American idol experience?

Olivia: My biggest takeaway / lesson learned from my American Idol experience is to always give my best performance no matter what, whether that be on a stage or even when I’m performing from my house (lol). I got that inspiration from Lionel Richie when he said it in Hollywood week; it has been stuck with me since then. This idol experience also helped me gain so much confidence not only for me personally, but my artistry side and as a singer

Idol Chatter: Which was your favorite American Idol performance and why?

Olivia: My favorite performance on American Idol was my Hawaii performance when I sang an iconic Tina Turner song, “Proud Mary.” I was the last person to perform so I had the chance of hearing and watching everyone from backstage, which was super cool but very nerve-racking. I knew I was prepared and ready because I had practiced so much, but I didn’t want to upset anyone because I was the closer and I knew if I messed up, that would be a bummer. However what made it special, was the moment right before I went on stage, the crowd started chanting my name and it just made me feel 10x better! Also I had the most fun ever on that stage with the band, the crowd dancing/ singing along with me.

Idol Chatter: What was the experience like, performing for American Idol — and fans around the country — from your own home?

Olivia: The experience was so amazing on American Idol, it was an experience I will never forget. This opportunity and platform I was blessed with is/was everything and more! The love and support that I have been given is out of this world and I am so so thankful for it all.

Idol Chatter: Obviously lots of plans are in limbo because of the pandemic, but what are your post-Idol plans musically? Where are you hoping this opportunity leads?

Olivia: Post-Idol I had a talk with my family about what I wanted to do and they were in total agreement of me continuing my musical journey, which wasn’t a hard decision because it is my passion and what I love. I want to start writing songs, especially during this quarantine, I have lot going through my mind and I feel the best way to let it out is through a song! I also what to start playing the piano again so I can incorporate it in my songs!

Idol Chatter: Do you plan to release music anytime soon? If so, what can you say about the sound, the timing, etc.?

Olivia: I would love to release music, but I definitely need help and I’m just waiting on an opportunity to come so I can really branch out into my career.

Idol Chatter: Finally, is there anything else you’d like to add about the Idol experience?

Olivia: It allowed me to truly find my passion for music and I was able to meet so many new people that I will have in my life forever so there will never be an enough amount of thank you’s to describe my gratitude!