Jennifer Jeffries, a 17-year-old from Starkville, Mississippi, has made an impactful appearance on American Idol with her original song ‘Change My Ways.’ This talented young artist has brought her Christian faith to the forefront of the popular TV show.
Jennifer began her song with a powerful image: a barely used Bible on her desk. “I’ve got a Bible on my desk,” she sang, “With no highlights, creases, pages are still crisp.” This untouched Bible was a sign of her initial disconnect from her faith. Throughout the song, Jennifer admits to past wrongdoings, singing, “I have been feeding flesh” and “I have been living in sin.”
The song shifts into a heartfelt plea to God. Jennifer prays, “God, I know you’re there,” and asks for His guidance, “make Your ways my ways.” She pledges a life of praise, saying, “I’ll sing your praise for all my days.”
As the song concludes, the transformation is evident. The Bible, once untouched, now shows signs of frequent use, “with faded pages” and “highlighted paragraphs,” reflecting Jennifer’s spiritual journey.
The judges were deeply impressed. Luke Bryan was taken aback, saying, “I was not expecting that voice.” Lionel Richie found himself deeply reflective, adding, “I am sitting here thinking the same thing.” Katy Perry was struck by Jennifer’s authenticity, calling her voice “so Mississippi” and “so raw.” Bryan noted her unique sound, saying she had an “indie film soundtrack voice.” Richie summed up their feedback, “What I’m in love with is your uniqueness.”
Jennifer received “yes” from all three judges, securing her a spot in Hollywood Week. Following her audition, she shared her gratitude on Instagram, excited about advancing in the competition.
Jennifer has been crafting songs about her faith for over a year. In an Instagram post, she shared her journey of discovering the vastness of God’s love, admitting, “I have never been more glad to be so wrong.”
WATCH: Jennifer Jeffries Sings Original Song ‘Change My Ways’ on American Idol