‘American Idol’ is back again for a new season and things are already looking up for it just an episode in. During the reality singing competition’s season premiere, the judges found a contestant who not only has talent but also an amazing life story.

Tearjerking Backstory

Richie kindly helped the nervous contestant prepare himself for his audition

The contestant in question Douglas Kiker, a garbage man from Alabama. His audition in the competition also marks the first time he’s ever sung in front of an audience before.

But his singing debut couldn’t have gone any better as he impressed the show’s judges. Even singer Katy Perry got teary-eyed as Kiker showed off his vocal abilities and shared his story.

As Kiker shared, before coming into the Idol studio he’s only sung by himself while on the job on the back of a garbage truck.

That said judge Lionel Richie and host Ryan Seacrest actually took him out on the street first so he could practice his chops on other people.

After getting some quick practice and experience, he returned inside to sing a rendition of the song ‘Bless the Broken Road’ by the band Rascal Flatts.

Impressed Judges

Kiker qualified for the next round and received a Golden Ticket to go to Hollywood

Tearful, Perry complimented Kiker and expressed her belief that he would be going onto greater heights along with his daughter. The ‘Harleys in Hawaii’ singer also encouraged him to show his vocal range some more.

Although Kiker admitted that he didn’t know what that meant, he went on to wow the panel again with a song this time with judge Luke Bryan accompanying him on the piano.

After the impromptu performance, the contestant was further showered with compliments by the judges.

Richie commended the things he can do with his voice despite his limited training and knowledge. What more, the ‘Hello’ singer lauded Kiker for setting an example for his daughter.

Latest Season

The three judges, who were also in season 17’s panel, returned for the 18th season of the show

The judges’ reception of Kiker is reflective of their previous sentiments about what they expect from the show and its contestants.

For example, Bryan has commented before on how the judges and the audience get to know and even love the competition’s singers being with them through their ups and downs.

Meanwhile, Richie observes how talent is already ‘showing up in buckets’ and how contestants are bringing more attitude with them as well.