Thousands of aspiring artists have tried their luck on American Idol throughout the show’s 22-year history. For some—like Carrie Underwood—Idol was a launching pad for a thriving career in country music. Others, like Mickey Guyton, had to seek alternate paths to success after judges rejected them. The “Better Than You Left Me” singer recently opened up about her experience auditioning for American Idol.

Country Star Says 'American Idol' “Threw Me Away” - American Songwriter

‘American Idol’ Cut Mickey Guyton Before Live Shows: “Blessing In Disguise”

After graduating from high school, Mickey Guyton left behind her hometown of Arlington, Texas, to chase her country music dreams. The eventual four-time GRAMMY nominee, now 41, tried out for season 7 of American Idol, which aired in 2008.

During a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live, Guyton received a call from a fan asking about her Idol audition. The country star made a face at those words, prompting the fan to ask if she didn’t audition after all.

“No, I did,” replied the “Black Like Me” singer. Host Andy Cohen remarked that she didn’t make it, to which Guyton responded, “I did not. They threw me away.”


Judges Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson cut Guyton just before the top 24 live shows. She only made a brief TV appearance during her final performance of the audition rounds.

Seven years later, Guyton’s debut single, “Better Than You Left Me,” reached No. 34 on the Billboard Hot Country Airplay chart. In 2020, she released the poignant “Black Like Me.”

Although mostly overlooked by country radio, the song earned Mickey Guyton a GRAMMY nod for Best Country Solo Performance. She was the first Black female artist to earn a nomination in that category.

“That was a blessing in disguise Sis,” commented one Instagram user.

Which ‘American Idol’ Judge Has She Heard From?

During Mickey Guyton’s appearance on Watch What Happens Live, the same fan went on to ask if any of the OG judging trio had reached out to her since the world learned her name.

“I heard from Mr. Randy Jackson, and he has been very lovely to me,” she responded. “I’m sure Simon and Paula—at the time—did not remember me. But yes, I have heard from Randy Jackson. He has been so lovely.”