Contestants on 'American Idol' increasingly becoming Christian artists: Why?

Over the years, "American Idol" fans have observed a pattern - many former contestants have become successful Christian artists. Including Danny Gokey, who believes it was no coincidence.

Several "American Idol" alumni, including Colton Dixon, Kris Allen, Phil Stacey, Mandisa, Melinda Doolittle, Jordin Sparks, and Lauren Daigle, have produced Christian music after their time on the reality singing competition.

Although Carrie Underwood is a renowned country singer, she has also publicly discussed her belief in God and released a Christian album titled "My Savior" in 2021.

In the previous season of "Idol," contestants displayed their religious beliefs on their clothing for a global audience of millions.

Megan Danielle, a 21-year-old waitress from Georgia, paid tribute to her late grandfather by singing Vince Gill's spiritual song, "Go Rest High on That Mountain," during her performance. Her bold commitment to her faith impressed judge Luke Bryan, who was among those moved by her performance.

"What I love about you is that you're not afraid to share your faith with everyone," Bryan said.

Danny Gokey, with his distinctive husky voice, finished third on the eighth season of "Idol," behind Adam Lambert and Kris Allen. He is now a well-known Christian singer who openly discusses his faith on social media, frequently sharing his spiritual journey with his wife Leyicet and their four children.

He said the transition to the Christian music industry was a no-brainer for him.

Gokey stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that his top priority in life is to follow Jesus.

Although he claimed to have done a stint after the show and got signed by a country record, he remained true to his faith-based beliefs.

"Even today, I continue to do Christian music full-time, and it remains the same for me. Regardless of the genre, I believe that the DNA of hope and faith in God is inherently present in me and my music."

It didn't surprise him that numerous "American Idol" alumni have become faith-based singers.

"The Bible makes it clear that when you are in Christ, you are a new creation. You take on the nature of God, which must flow through everything you do. Many of the people who made the show were raised in church, sang in church, and put their faith in Christ Jesus."

""Music is a significant aspect of churches, and it's where many people, including myself, got our start. As a result, churches often return to their roots," he stated."

Gokey noted that there are pop groups who are believers, but their message may be more subtle.

"Their music may not be overtly explicit, but you'll still sense their message."

Christian music has been instrumental in Gokey's life, providing comfort during difficult times. Gokey has openly shared about losing his first wife, Sophia, due to a heart condition. In her memory, he established the Sophia's Heart Foundation in 2008.

He stated that music served to strengthen his faith, hope, and encouragement.

Gokey's new nonprofit, Better Than I Found It, aims to support "people who are making a difference." To achieve this, they have donated cars, buses, and cargo vans, renovated kitchens for homeless and trafficking victims, established clothing closets, and renovated coffee shops.

"Our passion project is not just about living for ourselves and creating our own empires, but about uplifting others," he stated. "People hold great worth in God's eyes."