Idol fans will remember that April 7, 2017 marked one year since Idol crowned the winner of its farewell season. Some fans even say that the show has been teasing it’s return with tweets about auditioning, but even a year out from the show’s conclusion, there’s still plenty to talk about with the shows alumni from month to month. Let’s find out what they were up to in April…
New Music
Last month, we told you about Season 15 runner-up La’Porsha Renae‘s new album “Already All Ready” (available for purchase and streaming on iTunes and Apple Music here and on Spotify here) and Season 11’s Colton Dixon‘s new album “Identity” (available for purchase and streaming on iTunes and Apple Music here and on Spotify here). The pair are still riding high on those releases, as Dixon tours with Toby Mac to support the new tunes. In case you’re curious about what the album is all about, read our review.
Season 8 winner Kris Allen also released an EP featuring acoustic versions of songs from his most recent album, “Letting You In.” The EP is available for purchase on iTunes and for streaming on Apple Music and Spotify.
Season 4’s Constantine Maroulis is also breaking back into the music scene after spending some time on Broadway. His new single, “All About You” is on iTunes, Apple Music and Spotify as well.
Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips has also been teasing the release of his third album since the show. Phillips said his album was delayed by his contractual dispute with 19 Entertainment but promises fans some deeper, more emotional lyrics and melodies that display the singers growth over the past few years.

Season 14 contestant JAX appears on ex-judge Harry Connick Jr’s talk show. [Credit: @jax on twitter]
Appearances
With summer on the horizon, that means plenty of Idol’s are gearing up to play outdoor festivals and summer tours. One such festival is CMA Fest, going on in Nashville, TN from June 8 to 11th. Currently, Seasons 5, 10, and 15 are all slated to be represented with Kellie Pickler, Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, and Trent Harmon all taking the stage during the festival. For locations, dates, and times, check out the festival’s website. Harmon and Season 12 Runner-up Kree Harrison are also scheduled to play country singer Ty Herndon’s 2nd annual Concert for Love and Acceptance on June 8th. Details are on Herndon’s website.
This month, Season 14’s JAX also appeared on ex-Idol judge Harry Connick Jr’s talk show to play some new songs and talk about her life since her season ended. It was good to she she was doing well since her battle with cancer.
Season 10’s James Durbin also continues to tour the country as the new front man for Quiet Riot. If you’re a fan, this is one show you have to check out because apparently James is rocking his new gig! Check out the tour dates on the band’s website.
General

Carrie Underwood does yoga with her 2-year-old son. [Credit: @carrieunderwood on instagram]
Season 15’s MacKenzie Bourg also launched a new app so fans can keep up with his life and music. Fans who download the app could also win a chance to meet the singer in New York City.
Idol’s two biggest stars, Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson, have also been keeping busy in their own ways. For Carrie, that means taking a little downtime to do yoga with her two year old son while Kelly records her new album and comes in second on Billboard’s list of best choruses of the 21st century with her power-pop anthem, “Since U Been Gone.” Congrats to both lovely ladies!
Any new Idol shows you’ve been looking forward to attending? Do you want Idol to come back to our TVs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I recently saw Von Smith from Season 8 at a Postmodern Jukebox show in Italy! Looking forward to seeing the PMJ tour in North America now that Casey Abrams and Jax have been confirmed as performers.