Payton Riley's Teenage Breakup Song "Fireflies" Will Break Your Heart - American Idol 2024

[@counterterrorist7782]

the amount of ''thank you'' and ''yes sir'' she uses shows she gets raised up very well. she has a warm attitude she will get where she belongs!

[@ExNAudioz]

Yes! She is the sweetest girl I've ever met

[@verticle2612]

Don’t forget what they said… please come back. We’ll be waiting for you!

[@Steve-gq9ty]

The judges did right by letting her finish living her childhood. That's priceless. No fortune can replace your youth memories.

[@randallreece3636]

she is only 15....heartache is a huge part of life

[@evelynoliveira922]

​​@@Bobby.D.1776 I agree but is not that simple in such a young age... he doesn't have a car to go whatever he wants, maybe he's not allowed to go far from home alone whenever he wants. Maybe they live far from each other.... If I had a daughter like her I would be so sad to see her suffering like this, it breaks my heart... I hope both heal and maybe they end up together in another time... or she will become the next Taylor Swift idk 😅

[@berealsupportive2744]

That's very romantic and brave doing that for him, especially since it's an original song. He should definitely feel special and come back to her and we hope she comes back to Idol at 17 not 18. 17 is fine and then she can be established at 18 with her music career. 😊

[@MaggieRichardson30]

@@evelynoliveira922 she said she misses his friendship.

[@hannahlebrecht]

Nonetheless, very painful when you experience it…

[@jacqueslerocques]

The first heartbreak always hurts but we grow

[@jenna868]

Payton is a precious young lady. May God bless her as she matures and grows in life, voice, and songwriting.

[@brittanykemp2714]

Luke is a total dad! He was protective of her as soon as she started talking 💕💕💕

[@robertantonnyc]

singing an original, Fireflies. She started out emotional, so it was touching. Her voice is a little unformed but there is talent there and the song was really expressive and personal. Turning pain into Art. Enjoyed it - So You Wanna Be A Singer

[@mckinleyhafen]

Oh yeah love your insight man

[@humaneleaguelancPA]

You always have good insight, are you a vocal instructor?

[@robertantonnyc]

Thank you! I tries my best.@@mckinleyhafen

[@robertantonnyc]

No, I don't have the patience. lol. I'm a singer/songwriter etc.@@humaneleaguelancPA

[@robertantonnyc]

Gosh, No.I don't have the patience. I'm a singer/songwriter/life coach@@humaneleaguelancPA

[@kwest5171]

That young woman is going to be a star.

[@QurVgn]

❤

[@Jiiiisossj78998]

Nah

[@annettesouers2965]

agree

[@r7graphicsolution827]

Indeed

[@ExNAudioz]

She already does concerts

[@timcarder2170]

She's a hell of lyricist... i wanted to hear more of that song 😊

[@daCubanaqt]

Me too! I was waiting for the next verse!!! ❤❤❤

[@timcarder2170]

@@daCubanaqt Right!??

[@mjmason75]

I bet this day will probably be the best thing to happen to her music career if she decides to continue and put in the work.

[@ExNAudioz]

Met her at one of my dads work events! She is one of the sweetest and mature people you could ever meet in her age group!

[@theliftexpert]

Payton, A word of wisdom from an old boy …… When things feel like they are falling apart, what is actually happening is that your future is falling into a better place ❤

[@prestonhansen630]

She's so sweet! I agree with the judges, watch out for her come 18!

[@allaboutcrime1972]

I'm 51 now and I still remember my first heartbreak at 16. This baby girl is a Taylor Swift in the making. Keep writing and singing sweetie and you will go far!!❤

[@LinzeeMarie]

I do believe teenage heartbreak is just as painful if not more than someone in their 20's,50's and beyond. Firsts always cut deeper. Please keep writing songs. ❤leave the pain in the notes and only take the lesson. Cant wait to hear her songs on the radio.

[@etaesu83]

Right, there’s no context for it at all. Disorienting and so confusing.

[@jayjames9520]

See you in 3 years Payton!

[@-PiP-]

See you in three years, Payton

[@eileen8433]

Can’t wait!!🫶

[@Jiiiisossj78998]

In McDonald's

[@joelkearney]

People might give the judges crap for saying no to a sweet and talented girl or even say they missed a "big opportunity" with her in the future, and it might've looked good to viewers to give her three yeses, but the reality is Payton isn't ready. These judges really do care about the contestants, and that was the best advice and respect they could give her. I think she's better off not going through and getting discouraged by mentally/emotionally intense Hollywood Week. Payton has incredible potential, and time really is what she needs. I hope she does come back to Idol in a couple years

[@simsadie14]

Agreed, that potential is best nursed privately and I hope she comes back stronger. I'm sure she's crushed right now but it just wasn't the right time yet

[@MissValerieEly]

100%

[@melq9437]

What a sweetheart; I feel so badly for her. If you see this Payton, I hope we do see you again at another time!!

[@guyluvsbeauty]

This is the saddest audition, ever! She has a beautiful innocence and charm to her singing and songwriting. It would have been nice to see her grow on the show itself.

[@dbrentski4800]

I love the compassion all three of these judges exude... they are truly amazing... good luck Payton! We love you.

[@Lovealwayswins777]

SHES A SOLID SONG WRITER. the only issue is she’s still growing into her voice, but she has a beautiful tone, and she’s so close….judges were right. If she comes back in a few years or even if she creates her own music without idol, she can be successful.

[@nameisprivate5429]

Bless her heart. I can’t do the baby voice but maybe in a few years her voice will mature.

[@EdwardsNH]

Best writing of any of the people they've had here, under 20. Can't wait for her to come back!

[@HeroShades]

She has a pretty tone and lots of potential. Though I don't think she's quite ready yet and needs a few more years of experience. She's pretty green right now.

[@hawk7469]

Everyone Hold on to your hats... This GIRL WILL BE BACK in 2-3 years and we will have the next big talent!! Payton if you see this, they only said no because you needed to grow.

[@georgia1191]

Thanks Luke!! This girl has one of the best voices what’s going on

[@yvonnecrozier4385]

I just love Lionel, Katy and Luke, they are so in touch with the singers emotions and know how to encourage them to keep on writing and singing. They are so down to earth people and can relate, I feel so blessed to witness you guys on this programme lots of love to you all on this St.Patrick’s Day from Northern Ireland

[@cherylalt101]

Happy St. Patrick's Day! I love these auditions. Payton is so sweet and talented. She's a little young and very raw, but seems to have a really supportive family and a whole bunch of personality, emotion and talent. Loved this beautiful, sensitive young lady and her performance!

[@MrDoodlebug68018]

Katie this girl needed a great big hug like Luke gave her not a handshake. She wrote a beautiful song and I'm sure she's going to write many more! 🎸🎶🎤🎵🎹

[@lostshark442]

Awwww what a sweetheart 😢

[@flutetubamorg]

Payton that is a fantastic song you wrote. The judges weren't just trying to be nice, they meant it when they say they look forward to you coming back. Keep it up kid!

[@HeartFeelings.Sharing]

It's a beautiful song! She's such a beautiful soul too, got me crying here... She has a lot of talent, wishing her all the best!

[@nancyj5562]

I hope she never gives up cuz she's so talented

[@cathyclunysois]

I love her voice and her raw emotion. I do hope she doesn't give up, because she's got what it takes.

[@ericwanjohi4197]

The whole process of Payton's audition, as seen here is professional and deeply emotional at any level.. I love how the judges didn't break her tender heart further.

[@robynhornstein2659]

I loved her! Idol judges need to remember that since the show allows 15 year olds, you can’t tell a 15 year old she’s not mature enough to compete. Payton was emotional but still sang her brilliantly self-written song well, while playing guitar on national television. The judges failed her and the audience. Go to The Voice Payton!

[@justinthompson7404]

I think she did good, but I agree with the judges on this one. I think she needs more time to grow and work on her craft. If/when she comes back I think people are going to be blown away

[@divebobber]

I agreed with the judges. Her voice is growing into something that I think will serve her better in a couple of years.

[@joelkearney]

It's not just the age as to why she isn't mature enough. I think a couple more years really will do her some good. I'm sure there could be 15 year olds ready for the competition, but I think it's rarer. I think the judges were mentioning her age to encourage her that it's totally understandable for many 15 year olds to be better fit coming back after some more growth

[@smithsunleashed]

Dude what makes you think that you know any better than the judges who are professionals? They were right. She wasn’t ready. She came for an audition

[@chanin12]

They did her a huge favor. They know she has talent but needs to develop to be more successful on the show and her career. You're seriously overreacting. They told her she was talented like 20 times!

[@r7graphicsolution827]

This group of Judges always amazes me of how genuine and honest in their opinion, in a way that is not hurting to the person. Kudos! Paython will be a diamond someday!! Just keep writing!

[@dliedke]

2:14 OMG it is so beatiful, we need her singing more

[@janegotshalk6105]

i agree with the judges on this one. While Payton is extremely talented, she is way to innocent for the competition and fame. If she waits until she is 18, she will be much more mature and not destroyed by the music industry.

[@beffis1980]

I think that parents sometimes don’t realize how much teenagers juggle. Their lives are hard for juggling daily school routines, dealing with kids that are mean, trying to fit in somewhere in this world it can be so difficult. I think she was nervous, and I think she deserved to get to go. I hope that parents learn something from this and realize our kids emotions are real and they are huge to them. If we aren’t there for them through all the things that we think are small, they’re not gonna come to us later in life with all the things that are so big. I thought she did fantastic and she definitely has a huge future ahead of her. Bravo she better be back in three years! I can’t wait to see her shine again

[@flowerchildofsoul]

PAYTON!!!! you are SO brave, beautiful and magical!!!

[@MrFloydSaunders]

She better comeback next year, a little stronger, and a bit more ready to compete. She has real talent and a big future.

[@hearmenow909]

What a sweetie. It was the right decision at this stage in her development. She'll be back in a few years for sure, and she will steal the show...

[@jihyotwice3159]

Payton definitely didn't need to be put into all the pressures of the competition. She just needs to grow her fundamentals and experience. Enjoy life and growing up that will enable her to gain much needed experience to enrich her songwriting. Please slow down and enjoy life. Even the stars now wishes they can spend time alone.

[@mfgutierrezatcharter]

She just broke my heart…What a beautiful, sweet, loving young lady. I hope she continues singing and writing and comes back.❤️

[@bobbythomas2177]

I'm tearing up watching her. Heartbreak sucks at any age. Writing about it helps the world feel what you're going through, and she has a gentle spirit about her. Looking forward to seeing her again in a few years.

[@yatzkiekc395]

my tears were falling to this talented young girl in verry meaning full songs that she compose whe the two judges not voted him.

[@reesac34]

Your a sunflower planted by the maker of the sunshine and you are like a diamond in the rough who deserves to shine like the brightest star in the sky, so don’t get to worked up about not going to far because you’re still a lot of people’s American Idol. The judges all loved you they just felt that it’s all in the right timing and in three years it will be your time. Can’t wait to hear your beautiful voice again and all your songs and maybe we get to hear you somewhere before 3 years. ⭐️ Praying for you Payton ⭐️

[@humaneleaguelancPA]

Oh my, young love is so difficult! Payton, we will be waiting for you when you come back. Such encouraging words for you by the judges; now is the time to learn and grow in your craft. You can do it my dear! Can wait to see you, you will be more self assured next time. It was a great first time audition, and now you will know what to expect!

[@XxSakurafairy24xX]

I ADORE this girl!! What a sweetheart and she has the sweetest voice. She's going to do great things

[@bruceinoregon8163]

Payton Riley is a precious pumpkin! She is also a great songwriter with a sweet, sweet melodious voice. I think Idol may of passed on a genuine child prodigy superstar, and her former boyfriend better get back with her and apperciate her, because he will never, ever find that kind of genuine beautifulness in all his born days!

[@Marie2b202]

First heartbreaks are tough. I remember running to a payphone and spending my last quarter just to hear his voice. That memory sticks with me even now at 50. You will find a good man, young lady. 🙏🏻❤️

[@porshp8941]

her lyrics were soo good

[@John_May.]

She's got a lot of potential, but I am SO glad they told her no, and to come back in a few years.

[@hannetjiebotha4483]

Such a sweetheart you are, Payton! And so polite. God knows the timing of your life, and in time you'll SHINE for Him!! God's richest blessings to you. ❤

[@brandonrapola]

Amazing, respectful, young lady! Very polite and genuine!

[@Wildnativeedimentals]

WILL NOT ever forget your name PAYTON RILEY. Will wait for you 3 years or more. Well done girl and see you soon! 🌺🌺🌺♥️🇵🇭

[@crystalbluewaters]

I'm not being harsh with a critique, because i do see potential too. My advice is, don't give up. With her voice so quiet & soft added with crying just before singing it, came off a little nasal. I think with a music coach even her high school teacher if it still has music programs can help her, or private instructors. I've a soft quiet voice too, watching competitions & coaches/judges critiques & advice along with listening to others sing & adding volume & opening back of throat helped. But most of all, do not give up.

[@Soirse8]

She’s lovely and just wait until she comes back and shocks them with how good she is . While the world yearns for butterflies you’re a firefly lighting up your own path . Keep glowing .👏👏⭐️

[@Charlene-s8w]

Looking forward to seeing you again Payton, you already got what it takes, diamond in the rough, a few years from now you're going to smash it and we will be rooting for you. You're beautiful, talented and a star in the making

[@jamiehudson4894]

She has a bright future ahead of her. It’s there she just needs to grow

[@dingusmaximus6859]

15 and she has an amazing talent of writing already. Her voice is amazing and once she hones that in you will see her destroy the competition. ❤ im calling it now! Good luck kid! God speed!

[@handlemozart]

The judges got that so right and handled her gently. Her voice and her not mature enough yet to handle the music scene. Good call.

[@bevconklin5172]

Oh baby girl.., I’m so sorry 😢. You’re going to be okay and you will find an amazing person who is going to fill that hole-and you’re going to so happy that he taught you how to love ❤️. You’ve been blessed to have “a bar set” at such a young age! Don’t settle-get those big diamonds❤

[@TinyDancerO]

Awe Bless her!! It's tough to go through those teenage growing pains. I have a feeling she will be back in couple of years with a whole different kind of song, better than ever.

[@Cablecol]

I liked her better than five of the other auditionersbon this episode🧐. I hope she becomes successful❤.

[@jillianbalcazar5491]

When This contestant sing Her original song ''Fireflies'' During Her first audition of American Idol Tonight I think She has A pretty voice But I agree She needs more time!!!

[@nicoleevansfit2007]

This girl is insanely talented. Let her voice and talent mature a bit and she will take the world by storm. I hope she does come back!

[@TryjapaPlays]

It's truly heartwarming to see the shift in approach on American Idol towards contestants who don't make it through to the next phase. Instead of focusing solely on sensationalism or entertaining the audience with cringe-worthy auditions, the judges are now genuinely embracing empathy and kindness towards those individuals. This transformation isn't just about garnering views; it's about recognizing the courage it takes to pursue your dreams, regardless of the outcome. By offering support and encouragement to every contestant, regardless of their fate on the show, American Idol is setting a beautiful example of compassion and humanity. It's a reminder that behind every performance is a person with their own struggles and aspirations, and every step forward or backward deserves respect and understanding. Thank you, American Idol, for reminding us that kindness and empathy should always take center stage.

[@johnnykizer4644]

That was a good original song great job

[@eddiezorro1]

She's really good. I truly wish her the very best!

[@brandenrichards1837]

Songwriting is already there. Singing will get even better with age. Good stuff!

[@713Clayboy]

Once a friend always a friend. If that boy was really your friend he will learn how to forgive and forget. Life and relationships are so weird and God will put the right people in your life if you let him. Great job on American Idol.

[@layasaul28]

Payton!!!!! Those "no"s you got are vitamins to help you GROW. I can't wait to see more of you and hear more of your songs. "Some of your best memories haven't happened yet! (and... I used to work in the entertainment industry--you'll be stronger in three years for that business too, but bring your parents then too!!) xoxoxo

[@gwenmloveskpopandmore]

She’s one of the youngest contestants that auditioned this year and I just know she’ll be back ❤ God bless her

[@JustinSmithPYRO]

She's gonna be something someday, that's a guarentee. She's got it 🤘🤘 guess we'll see her in 3 year's.

[@abbythomas69]

she goes to my school!! such a sweet sweet girl ❤

[@brookee7391]

Sweet baby girl, you have stolen a piece of my heart forever, stay beautiful always. I am praying for you! ❤😊🙏

[@bearnpici]

I wished they would have let her through. She has huge talent!

[@SavannahJ79]

Bless her soul. Life just starting, all good things from here on.

[@singin42fun]

How was this a no??? ?????????????? They put through people that aren't ready.... UUUGGHHHHH

[@ruxandraandriescu5978]

She was so much better than half of the singers they’ve put through, weird judgement

[@FrigidFrosty]

I can see it now in two or three years she'll be back and blow them away with another original song. that was a good song. Stay the way you are, Payton, don't change,

[@autk]

Thanks Luke for the vote of confidence.

[@amberyooper]

I really like her a lot! She may not be ready for the super competitive nature of Idol, but she sure can write and sing a song! I really hopes she keeps on singing and writing songs.

[@Chazbridge]

What a sweetheart! I think the judges are right, a couple more years and I think Payton is gonna give the competition a run for their money!!

[@MrHotep75]

You got this young lady! All great songs are born from the things you've already experienced. I can't wait to hear your album one day 💯🙏

[@JJ-dt6bb]

She will be back. Props to Luke being like a dad to her.

[@bvmheart]

She's got a great gift 🎁

[@auzzieworker5183]

Yeah. Can't wait to see Payton return.

[@mh-tb9lu]

She’s the sweetest girl. That song was really amazing for 15 years old. They did her a favor not bringing her into this competition, it could’ve ruined her love for music and passion. She needs to experience some more, work on her art, and she’s gonna be big if she chooses to continue music! I hope she does. She is such an emotional girl, and that isn’t a weakness. She will be able to write amazing music someday with her soul.

[@tylernich0848]

I'm glad they said no, way too raw, she's going to be amazing in 4 years

[@mysublimechick]

Damn thats so hard being so young going through that

[@Cr4z33_YT]

Payton what a lovely soul! Please come back into 3 years we COUNT on it! ❤

[@ginettemartel6237]

Payton, you have a fan in Canada already. You write beautifully. One day, you will write a song for these guys!

[@rebelscout423]

What a great sport! She took the critique a lot better than others.

[@jordanmartin7507]

I get that she's young but why let 15 year old with that much talent to write a song like that and then to say no is shocking in my eyes, I hope she does come back and absolutely smashes it but I don't feel like it's not cool from the judges

[@mybobbleheads]

So sweet and polite. Good on you!!! Your parents and grandparents should be so proud

[@juliaw107]

I hope she comes back to idol in a few years. She’s going to be one hell of a firecracker. Good on her. Such a strong and beautiful young lady. Bright future ahead of her! 15 is a tough age but she’ll come back stronger.

[@AndreSantos-eg9mc]

It's the best "no" she will hear in her life. She will go through that and be a really good artist. I'm rooting for her. ps: suffering of heartbreak too, I've got you.