‘American Idol’ Contestant Lauren Alaina Breezes Through ‘I Hope You Dance’

Tonight on 'American Idol,' the third round of performances was all about Lauren Alaina. While visiting her hometown of Rossville, Ga. on Saturday, May 14, Alaina received a text from the 'Idol' judges letting her know that she would be singing Lee Ann Womack's No. 1 country single, 'I Hope You Dance.'

Alaina's performance was not only stunning in the vocal sense, but also because of the overall ambiance projecting from the stage. Wearing a long, sparkly, aquamarine gown, Alaina stood centerstage in front of a full string section as she made the Womack classic her own. The crescendo of Alaina's performance came as she hit a huge, beautiful note during the lines, "I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean / Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens."

The judges and audience loved lil' Lauren's strength, poise and passion, with J. Lo telling her, "You gave me goosies from head to toe. I'm gonna dare to say that you won that round for me already." Steven Tyler added, "Lauren, you walked here like you owned the Grand Ole Opry. Singing is an extension of who you really are." Randy Jackson continues, "One of my favorite songs in life. Lee Ann is a good friend of mine, and I'm sure she is watching and saying 'Dude, you slayed it."

Well, we're not sure if Lee Ann is saying that verbatim, but there is no doubt that Alaina's last performance of the night was one the most powerful of the entire evening.

Watch Lauren Alaina Perform 'I Hope You Dance' on 'American Idol'