American Idol': Skylar Laine Eliminated

After weeks of wowing “American Idol” judges, the Mississippi native was eliminated during Thursday night’s results show.

Throughout the season judges proclaimed Laine of Brandon the “rockin’ country girl” and praised her strong performances. Laine excelled performing such hits as, “Shameless,” “Fancy,” and “Heard It Through the Grapevine,” giving each song her own rocking, country twist that carried her through to the Top 5. On Wednesday night’s show, judges told her that her performance of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Fortunate Son,” was one of her strongest performances.
“You are born to be on stage,” judge Randy Jackson said Wednesday. “Another outstanding performance,” and on Thursday night’s show, during a recap of Laine’s Wednesday performances, mentor Jimmy Iovine said Laine is an energetic performer.After a season-high of nearly 60 million votes and a torturous back-and-forth from host Ryan Seacrest, it was revealed that Skylar had received the fewest number of votes and was eliminated from the competition. Although the young country singer didn't have her best night on Wednesday -- and Hollie made a major comeback -- many think she shouldn't have been eliminated.

"She doesn't deserve to go home because of that," record executive Jimmy Iovine said during the show. "But it was less than I know she's capable of."

Upon finding out her fate, Skylar said, “I love you. It’s alright," and then took the stage to perform Miranda Lambert's "Gunpowder & Lead."

Skylar's dignified sign off had judge Jennifer Lopez in tears. Randy Jackson said every week is going to be tough now, because this is the best top five "Idol" has ever had and Steven Tyler agreed.