Emmy Russell is the coal miners great-granddaughter.
Emmy Russell, the granddaughter of legendary country singerLoretta Lynn, is going to Hollywood.
The judges apparently didnt know about Russells lineage before she arrived to audition.
Emmy Russell and Loretta Lynn.Disney/Eric McCandless; Erika Goldring/WireImage
Growing up, I sang music my entire life, she said as she introduced herself.
I just love writing.
Im 24 years old.
Songwriter, I love music.
This is my meemaws house, she said.
Disney/Eric McCandless; Erika Goldring/WireImage
The judges lightly jabbed at Russell for seeming quiet and shy.
I think that when you come from a musical family, the shadow is so big.
How do I fill those shoes?
Well the deal is, you dont.
You make your own shadow.
Perry praised her songwriting abilities but encouraged her to speak and perform with more confidence.
Emmy, youre an A+ songwriter.
So was your grandma, youve got the gift, she said.
I think you came in like a mouse.
Richie echoed her sentiments.
“My dear, you have promise, and I like your promise, he said.
Each one of us is trying to battle something that were trying to overcome.
In your case you have big shoes.
Bryan also encouraged her to embrace her voice.
We just need to lift you up and get you more confident and you just need to own it.
Russell reflected on the experience at the end of her segment.
I think Im more like her now than whenever I was trying to be like her.
American Idolairs Sundays at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.
