‘Idol’ Finalist Hannah Harper Hopes To Reach People Who “Would Never Set Foot Inside Of A Church”

on May 07, 2026

"American Idol" Season 24 finalist Hannah Harper took a moment to speak on her hope of communicating the gospel message to a larger crowd through country music. (Photo credit: Hannah Harper / Facebook)

The Singer Shared With Her Hometown How She Still Hopes To Spread The Gospel

This coming Monday, May 11, the Top 3 contestants on Season 24 of American Idol will be singing for America’s vote in the season finale.

The Top 3 is comprised of Keyla Richardson, Jordan McCullough, and Hannah Harper.

Over the course of Season 24, Hannah has been one of the frontrunners, often singing country songs and opening up about her experience as a mother.

On Wednesday, May 6, an American Idol tradition continued, as Hannah was welcomed by her hometown of Willow Springs, Missouri, for Hannah Harper Day.

There, she rode to the event in a horse-drawn carriage and eventually put on a free concert for her hometown, singing original songs as well as performing with a surprise guest: Jo Dee Messina.

Prior to the concert, she got to speak directly with those who are in her hometown, and she was asked about her approach to genre as a Christian…

In a video shared by Howell County News, based out of Willow Springs, Hannah shared why she is choosing to pursue a career in country music rather than gospel, saying, “The genre of music that I chose was a very purposeful issue, because I grew up in all-gospel, and I felt like the Lord gave me a peace about knowing that if I pursued a country [music career], I would have the opportunity to be on bigger platforms and witness to people who would never set foot inside of a church.”

A significant part of growing up for Hannah was life on the road with her family’s band. Often playing churches, they brought bluegrass stylings to the timeless message of Christ’s love for His people.

Continuing, Hannah said:

“If I was doing gospel, they’re coming expecting to hear from the Lord. If I go sing in a venue where they’re expected to hear drinking songs and I give an invitation, then it could be life changing for those people.”

Concluding her thoughts on her approach to her faith through country music, Hannah added, “So for me, it was one of those things that I chose. Country is the genre, but I’m going to sneak in some things every once in a while, just to let them know who I represent.”

Watch Hannah Harper speak on why she is pursuing country music instead of gospel, here:

Country music and the Christian worship scene have often had overlap, and that’s been particularly true of the present moment.

Lately, country music has been excelling as artists shy away from strictly secular themes.

Yes, artists like Ella Langley and Morgan Wallen occasionally speak on their faith, and incorporate some Christian imagery in their lyricism, but there are also more overt examples in the industry.

Over the past year, Christian artist Brandon Lake has been working within the country music scene, recording high-profile duets of crossover songs with major country artists.

Starting with “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” which he rereleased as a very successful duet with Jelly Roll, Brandon has gone on to collaborate with Cody Johnson on “When A Cowboy Prays,” Bailey Zimmerman on “Just Believe,” and even Lainey Wilson for “The Jesus I Know Now.”

Further, he also put on a faith-based songwriting workshop, which was attended by the likes of Lainey Wilson, Thomas Rhett, HARDY, Bailey Zimmerman, Tyler Hubbard, Russell Dickerson, and many more.

From that, Brandon says about 43 songs were written.

Detailing some of the experience on social media, Brandon wrote:

“IDK what this next chapter looks like BUT I know it’s gonna be special cause it was birthed from genuine love and friendship. Praying God continues to allow me to love this community that’s blessed me so much and if He’s willing allow me to contribute a lil something of my own.”

Closing out his post, Brandon wrote, “Thank you to everyone who poured out your heart and poured into me over those special 5 days. God bless Country & Christian Music!”

The American Idol finale will air at 8 p.m. EST on ABC on May 11.