Elleigh Marie, a 20-year-old cosmetologist from American Fork, Utah, captivated viewers and judges alike on American Idol 2024 with her heartfelt rendition of Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” Her powerful performance showcased her immense talent and dreams, hinting at her potential to become a major star in the United States.

The judges were pleasantly surprised upon learning about Elleigh’s hometown. Luke Bryan humorously noted that with a name like American Fork, Utah, the town must be quite patriotic. Their admiration for Elleigh deepened when they discovered that her parents serve in the Air Force and her mother is a singer. Elleigh’s transition into professional music was marked by a moving and sincere performance, reflecting her inner strength and passion. Watch her stunning performance below:

Before Elleigh performs, she shares some background about her family. She talks about the challenges of caring for her sick mother while her father was away serving in the Air Force. Despite her young age, Elleigh had significant responsibilities, managing her mother’s renal and thyroid diseases during her father’s absence. Although these experiences have made her stronger, it’s poignant to hear how much she has endured.

Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me” is not only one of her most popular songs but also a beautiful example of female-led American blues. Since 1971, Raitt has released numerous iconic tracks, including “Love Me Like a Man” (1971) and “Angel From Montgomery” (1974). Her tender, roots-inspired albums offer something for everyone. Watch Elleigh’s performance of this stunning song below: