American Idol finalist Slater Nalley says he is not done with pursuing his musical dreams after being cut from the competition on Monday night.

Slater Nalley was the first singer announced in the Top 5 on Season 23 of American Idol. The look of relief on his face was apparent, especially after he dealt with a lyric flub earlier in the night.

American Idol's shocking May 11 results left viewers and judges alike with their jaws on the floor when powerhouse vocalist Gabby Samone was eliminated just shy of the top 5. Fellow contestant Slater Nalley quickly took to social media with words of encouragement for the Baltimore native: "I love you more than words can describe.

Georgia's own Slater Nalley was eliminated from American Idol on Monday. Here is a look at his performances and social media posts.

Only three contestants will advance to next Sunday’s season 23 finale of American Idol, and Slater Nalley is determined to be among them. For the show’s second Disney-themed night, Nalley performed ” You’ve Got a Friend In Me,” from the 1995 film Toy Story.

During part 2 of American Idol season 23's Disney Night, which aired on Monday, May 12, 2025, Slater Nalley performed two songs much like the other contestants. For one of his performances, he chose Born To Be Wild by Steppenwolf, which was featured in D3: The Mighty Ducks.

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The performance drew praise from judges Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie, but it was judge Luke Bryan who shared a vulnerable moment with Nalley about his brief flub. “I want you to just understand, that stuff happens,” Bryan said. “I’ve done it on award shows and high-pressure moments. But way to recover and great job on the finish.”