‘American Idol’ Recap: Kree Harrison + Candice Glover Each Perform Three Songs

Tonight’s episode of ‘American Idol’ (May 15) brought the first part of the Season 12 finale, and the Top 2 engaged in a true battle of country versus soul. Kree Harrison and Candice Glover performed three songs each: the first was chosen by ‘Idol’ creator Simon Fuller, the second was their potential winning single and the third was a reprise of a tune performed earlier in the season.

Carly Rae Jepsen also made an appearance to premiere her new song ‘Take a Picture.’

“This talent is so magnificent; it’s of a level that’s just mind-boggling,” said judge Mariah Carey in regard to the two remaining contestants.

Here’s PopCrush's recap of tonight's finale episode:

ROUND ONE: SIMON FULLER’S CHOICE

Kree Harrison: She took the stage in a flowing white dress and sang Sarah McLachlan’s ‘Angel,’ showcasing her strong spirit and flawless vocals. “Kree took something and she made it very delicate, very subtle and beautiful,” remarked Carey.

Candice Glover: She sang a passionate version of Adele’s ‘Chasing Pavements,’ and Randy Jackson praised her for making the song her own. The judges also liked that her performance brought out her lower register.

ROUND TWO: POTENTIAL WINNING SINGLE

Kree Harrison: Her poised delivery of ‘All Cried Out’ brought the judges to their feet.

Candice Glover: Her meaningful tune ‘I Am Beautiful’ also received a standing ovation from the panel.

ROUND THREE: REPRISE

Kree Harrison: She revisited Patty Griffin’s ‘Up to the Mountain,’ which she first performed in Las Vegas earlier in the season. “It’s the spirituality and the soulfulness that you tap into,” commented Keith Urban. Nicki Minaj praised her for her beautiful voice and soul, and Jackson called it her best performance of the night.

Candice Glover: Her performance of Ben E. King’s ‘I (Who Have Nothing)’ earned yet another standing O from the judges. Minaj praised her for commanding the stage, and Jackson said she brought the night to a whole new level. “What you have is the innate ability to take any song and turn it into a vehicle for that amazing voice that nobody can deny,” said Carey.

Be sure to tune in to ‘American Idol’ tomorrow night (May 16) for part two of the Season 12 finale. Who do you think will win?

Watch Kree Harrison Perform ‘Angel’ on ‘American Idol’

Watch Candice Glover Perform ‘Chasing Pavements’ on ‘American Idol’

Watch Carly Rae Jepsen Perform ‘Take a Picture’ on ‘American Idol’

Watch Kree Harrison Perform ‘All Cried Out’ on ‘American Idol’

Watch Candice Glover Perform 'I Am Beautiful' on 'American Idol'

Watch Kree Harrison Perform 'Up to the Mountain' on 'American Idol'

Watch Candice Glover Perform 'I (Who Have Nothing)' on 'American Idol'