American Idol Hopeful, MV Resident Sonika Vaid Seeks to Advance Past Top 24

MARTHA’S VINEYARD, MA — American Idol contestant—and Martha’s Vineyard resident—Sonika Vaid seeks to advance in the singing competition in this week’s episodes.

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Vaid is one of 24 contestants remaining. Last week, she advanced after singing Taylor Swift’s “Safe and Sound.”

Vaid is scheduled to perform Thursday this week.

At just 20 years old, she has been declared an early favorite to win Idol, which is in its final season.

Vaid, who grew up in Weston and lives on Martha’s Vineyard, has drawn accolades from judges.

“You know, you sang beautifully,” said judge Harry Connick, Jr after Vaid sang “Look at Me” by Carrie Underwood in an earlier round. “That was a perfect performance. I was totally engaged. This was the only time this particular season that I saw somebody that I actually thought would win this thing. That’s a God-given voice.”

Photo: Sonika Vaid performing in front of American Idol judges Jennifer Lopez (left) and Keith Urban. (Credit: American Idol/FOX)