Emmy Russell, the granddaughter of country music legend Loretta Lynn, auditioned for season 22 of “American Idol” and impressed the judges with her original song “Skinny,” securing her spot in the next round of the competition. Despite her musical lineage, Russell’s audition was a moment for her to step out of her grandmother’s shadow and showcase her own talent and passion for music, which she has been involved with from a young age, including performing on the road and engaging in missionary work before focusing on her music career.
Emmy Russell, the granddaughter of country music legend Loretta Lynn, impressed judges on season 22 of “American Idol” with her original song “Skinny,” showcasing her musical talent and continuing her grandmother’s legacy.
Emmy Russell is making waves, following the legendary footsteps of her grandmother, Loretta Lynn, all the way to Hollywood. At just 25, she’s the granddaughter of the country music icon, known for the timeless “Coal Miner’s Daughter.”
Her audition for season 22 of *American Idol* aired on a Sunday, captivating the judges—Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan—with her original song, “Skinny.” Interestingly, the judges were clueless about her rich country music heritage until she stepped into the audition room.
Russell shared a bit about her life during her introduction. “I’ve been singing my whole life,” she said. “I love writing. I’m 24, a songwriter, passionate about music.” Despite her deep musical roots, she admitted to not performing publicly as much anymore.
Loretta Lynn passed away in October 2022, at the age of 90. Her legacy, however, continues to inspire many, including her granddaughter.
During her audition, when Bryan inquired about her grandmother, Russell proudly revealed her lineage. She even gave the *American Idol* crew a tour of her “meemaw’s” house in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee—a place brimming with family history.
Russell described her grandmother as one of the greatest country singers, but to her, she was simply “meemaw.” Growing up in such an environment felt normal to her. Despite feeling “a little timid,” she expressed her desire to “challenge” herself and “own [her] voice.”
Her performance of “Skinny” deeply moved the judges, earning her a unanimous “yes” to proceed to the next round in California. Post-audition, Russell reflected on her grandmother’s influence, feeling closer to her legacy than ever before.
Russell’s journey has been remarkable. Before diving into music, she traveled the world as a Christian missionary in her early 20s. Her performances at the Grand Ole Opry, including a touching tribute to Lynn, have been notable. She even earned a nomination for Performance of the Year at the 2023 CMT Music Awards.
Beyond Lynn, Russell’s musical roots run deep. Her mother, Patsy Lynn, was part of the country duo The Lynns. Russell is also the great-niece of Crystal Gayle, another country music legend.
Before *American Idol*, Russell released her single “Skinny,” a heartfelt exploration of her struggles with disordered eating. The song, part of a collaboration with The Song House, debuted on TikTok and was officially released with a music video in September 2023.
As of February 2024, Russell’s latest single, “Break Up Song,” has been released, and she boasts over 21,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Her journey is a testament to the power of legacy, talent, and the courage to forge one’s path in the shadow of greatness.
