We who idolize “American Idol” already know which artists will perform on this Sunday’s live finale starting at 8 p.m. ET/ 5 p.m. PT alongside Alejandro Aranda, Laine Hardy and Madison VanDenburg — the Top 3 contestants who are vying for the Season 17 title. They include all three judges — Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.
But Gold Derby — along with “Billboard” magazine — has scored an exclusive look at what actual songs will be done by the participating performers, included singers previously eliminated on the show. Here is the line-up of grand finale numbers, which could be expanded or changed by showtime:
SEE ‘American Idol’ Winners: Where Are They Now (Seasons 1 – 16)?
- Season 8 runner-up Adam Lambert will perform his new single “New Eyes” and “Bohemian Rhapsody” with Dimitrius Graham.
- Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood will make a special appearance during her Cry Pretty Tour 360 to sing her new hit single “Southbound” live on the “Idol” stage.
- Daddy Yankee and Katy Perry will perform “Con Calma.”
- Dan + Shay will do “All To Myself” and “Speechless” with Madison VanDenburg.
- Jon Pardi will share a medley of “Nightshift” and “Dirt On My Boots” with Laine Hardy.
- Kane Brown will tackle “Good As You” and “Lost in the Middle of Nowhere” with Alyssa Raghu.
- Katy Perry pairs up with Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon on “Unconditionally.”
- Kool & the Gang will deliver a medley of “Hollywood Swinging,” “Ladies Night” and “Celebrate” with the Top 10.
- Luke Bryan will harmonize with Laci Kaye Booth on “Knockin’ Boots” and “Every Breath You Take.”
- Lionel Richie will boogie down with the Top 10 with “Dancing on the Ceiling.”
- Montell Jordan will sing “This Is How We Do It” with Margie Mays and Austin Michael.
- Viral sensation Shayy returns to perform “Rise Up.”
- Weezer will deliver a medley of “Africa,” “Take On Me” and “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” with Wade Cota and Walker Burroughs.
Left off this list is Alejandro, who is expected to get a solo spot on the season wrap-up. One might presume he will do a reprise of one of his original compositions that he performed previously. Another change from what was released before: The entire Top 10, and not just Uche, will jam with Kool & the Gang. Changes might still be pending for this line-up, but it is bound to be quite the show.
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