Surprise Trio: Slater Nalley Stuns with Carrie Underwood and Cody Johnson in Unforgettable Idol Finale Moment

During the Season 23 finale of American Idol on May 18, 2025, country music took center stage as finalist Slater Nalley delivered a heartfelt performance of “I’m Gonna Love You” alongside judge Carrie Underwood. The duet took an unexpected and thrilling turn when Underwood introduced a surprise guest: country star Cody Johnson.

The performance began with Nalley and Underwood sharing the stage, their voices blending seamlessly as they navigated the emotional depths of the song. Midway through, Underwood announced, “Ladies and gentlemen, please make welcome, Cody Johnson,” prompting Johnson to join them on stage. Nalley’s astonishment was evident as Johnson, the original artist of the song, added his rich vocals to the mix. The trio’s harmonies created a powerful and memorable moment that resonated with both the live audience and viewers at home.

“I’m Gonna Love You” was originally released as the lead single from the deluxe edition of Cody Johnson’s album Leather in September 2024. The song, featuring Carrie Underwood, showcases themes of enduring love and commitment, making it a fitting choice for the finale. The collaboration between Johnson and Underwood was well-received, with critics praising their vocal chemistry and the song’s heartfelt lyrics.

Nalley’s performance, bolstered by the surprise appearance of Johnson, was a standout moment of the finale. Although he did not make it into the final three, this performance highlighted his talent and potential in the country music scene. The genuine surprise and emotional depth of the performance left a lasting impression on the audience and added a unique highlight to the season’s conclusion.

This collaboration between Slater Nalley, Carrie Underwood, and Cody Johnson exemplifies the spirit of American Idol, where emerging talents are given the opportunity to shine alongside established artists, creating unforgettable musical moments.

For those who missed the live broadcast, the performance is available to watch on American Idol’s official YouTube channel:

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