Lucas Leon Delivers Standout 90s Night Performance on 'American Idol'

The 18-year-old contestant brings Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's 'It's Your Love' to life.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:34pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of shimmering, glittering sequins illuminated by dramatic studio lighting, evoking the glamour and energy of a live music performance.Lucas Leon's standout performance of a beloved 90s country hit on American Idol captures the timeless allure of classic country music.Gallatin Today

Lucas Leon, an 18-year-old contestant on American Idol, delivered a standout performance of Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's 1997 hit 'It's Your Love' during the show's 90s Judges Song Contest episode. The Gallatin, Tennessee native showcased his raspy vocals and emotional connection to the lyrics, impressing the judges and even catching the attention of the song's songwriter.

Why it matters

Lucas Leon's performance of 'It's Your Love' on American Idol highlights the continued popularity and influence of 90s country music, as well as the show's ability to uncover talented young artists who can breathe new life into classic songs.

The details

For the 90s Judges Song Contest episode, the American Idol judges each selected a song for Leon to perform, including 'It's Your Love' by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, 'Should've Been a Cowboy' by Toby Keith, and 'Ain't That Lonely Yet' by Dwight Yoakam. Leon originally planned to sing 'Should've Been a Cowboy,' but ultimately decided to go with 'It's Your Love.' Taking the stage with his guitar, Leon showcased a raspier side of his voice while fully embracing the emotional lyrics. The performance was well-received by the judges, with Lionel Richie praising Leon's 'believability' and Carrie Underwood admitting she had a 'hard time' deciding which song to pick for him.

  • Lucas Leon, who is 18 years old, performed on the American Idol episode that aired on April 7, 2026.
  • 'It's Your Love' by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill was originally released in 1997.

The players

Lucas Leon

An 18-year-old contestant on the 2026 season of American Idol who delivered a standout performance of Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's 'It's Your Love'.

Tim McGraw

A country music superstar who, along with his wife Faith Hill, recorded the hit song 'It's Your Love' in 1997.

Faith Hill

A country music superstar who, along with her husband Tim McGraw, recorded the hit song 'It's Your Love' in 1997.

Lionel Richie

One of the judges on the 2026 season of American Idol who selected 'It's Your Love' for Lucas Leon to perform.

Carrie Underwood

One of the judges on the 2026 season of American Idol who was impressed by Lucas Leon's performance of 'It's Your Love'.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Your voice with that song, resonated to the point of believability. I love what you did.”

— Lionel Richie, American Idol Judge

“It felt believable, it felt genuine, I liked your voice on it.”

— Carrie Underwood, American Idol Judge

What’s next

American Idol will return next Monday, April 13, as the Top 11 contestants take on iconic hits from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees while America votes live to determine the Top 9. The 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees will also be revealed during the episode.

The takeaway

Lucas Leon's powerful performance of Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's 'It's Your Love' on American Idol demonstrates the enduring appeal of 90s country music and the show's ability to uncover talented young artists who can breathe new life into classic songs.