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Minnesota’s own Chris Tungseth, the construction worker from Fergus Falls, has hammered his way into the top 11 of the reality TV show “American Idol.” That’s after what some at home considered Tungseth’s rocky performance of Edwin McCain’s song “I’ll Be.”

Monday night’s theme was “judge’s choice” for the live show. “American Idol” judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan each chose a song for contestants to perform. But their choices were unknown to the contestants. 

Tungseth’s options were the Black Crowes’ “She Talks to Angels,” Seal’s “Kiss from a Rose” and Edwin McCain’s “I’ll Be.” 

Ultimately, Tungseth chose the latter after admitting he had never heard of the other two songs. But his lack of stage experience was almost his undoing. Although he grew up singing in church, it was obvious Tungseth faltered at times.

It was later revealed that Underwood had been the judge who had selected “I’ll Be” for Tungseth.  

“I’m going to be super honest. I felt like there were some really magical moments in there,” said Underwood, who has been one of Tungseth’s greatest supporters this season. “And I felt like there were a few not-so-great moments.”

But, fellow judge Luke Bryan’s take was quite the opposite. 

“Great job,” Bryan said. “The soul in your voice is just so good.”

Audience members sided with Bryan and in the end voted Tungseth into top 11 of the live show. Tungseth was the first to be told he had passed muster and appeared gobsmacked. 

Monday’s episode started with the resolution of a cliffhanger. The field was supposed to be whittled down to the top 12 competitors the week prior. But competition got so heated with an overwhelming amount of audience members voting online and through text that host Ryan Seacrest told viewers producers needed an extra week to tally the results properly.

One of Tungseth’s friends signed him up for “American Idol” without telling him. Then to prepare for auditions, he performed locally at open mic nights and restaurants.

Tungseth has connected with viewers this season by sharing personal challenges he’s faced. His father passed from leukemia in 2023 and his mother is currently living in a nursing home because of multiple sclerosis.

Viewers will have to tune in next Monday to see Tungseth continue representing Minnesota on the world’s stage.

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Mathew Holding Eagle III

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The Fergus Falls singer Chris Tungseth advanced again on the reality TV show “American Idol.”

A man in a black t-shirt holds a guitar and a microphone.

Courtesy of Eric McCandless | Disney

The four judges of "American Idol" pose for a photo next to shelves of records.

Minnesota’s Chris Tungseth breaks into top 11 of 'American Idol'

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