America Is Falling in Love With This Minnesota Artist In The Top 30 On American Idol

Some good news out of Minnesota that just keeps getting better.

A few weeks ago, I wrote a story about Minnesota's own, Chris Tungseth earning a golden ticket to Hollywood on American Idol. Now, it appears that all of America is realizing what we already know...Chris Tungseth is an amazing musician.

The Original Song That Moved The Judges On American Idol

When Chris Tungseth showed up for his initial American Idol audition, he took a risk.  Chris brought an original song that honored his hero - his dad.  In the history of American Idol and other reality TV shows like this, that gamble doesn't always pay off.  But this song told a story that couldn't be matched.

At just 10 years old, Chris' family was pushed into a world of medical jargon, appointments, and diagnoses when his mom was told she had a pretty aggressive form of multiple sclerosis.  Through all of this, Chris' dad became the guy who carried the weight.  He was Superman.

Unfortunately, a new round of medical terms became part of Chris's family's vocabulary when Chris's Superman, his dad, was diagnosed with cancer.

Chris turned that pain, gratitude, and love into music.  And it worked.

If you missed Chris' original performance on American Idol that sent him straight to Hollywood, take a moment and watch the YouTube clip below...but I'll just warn you, grab a few Kleenex before you hit play.

READ MORE: Minnesota Singer Scores Golden Ticket On American Idol

Minnesota’s Chris Tungseth Advances to Top 30 on American Idol

If you missed the latest episode of American Idol, it was intense.  The list of 127 contestants was slimmed down to 30.

Based on the latest news posted by USA Today and TV Line, the following American Idol contestants have advanced to the Top 30 and are headed to Hawaii.  And yes, there is a familiar Minnesota name on that list.

• Makiyah
• Jordan McCullough
• Lucas Leon
• Bella Emry
• Madison Moon
• Keyla Richardson
• Braden Rumfelt
• Chris Tungseth
• Jake Thistle
• Tianna Roberts
• Philmon Lee
• Brooks Rosser
• Daniel Stallworth
• Kutter Bradley
• Bryant Thomas
• Jesse Findling
• Julián Kalel
• Sheldon Riley
• Brianna Yancey
• Kiera Howell
• Kyndal Inskeep
• Hannah Harper
• Ruby Rae
• Jacquie Lee
• Brenna Brigman
• Rae
• Genevieve Heyward
• Abayomi
• Michael Garner
• Chloe Lauren

As TV Line stated, Chris Tungseth is "just a guy singing from his heart, no bells and/or whistles necessary."

Chris Tungseth Reacts To Making The Top 30 On American Idol

Once the episode aired, Chris posted the following note on his personal Facebook page:

What's Next On American Idol?

The next episode of American Idol is on March 9th - 'Ohana Round.  Find details on how to watch at TV Guide.