Viewers watching tonight's episode of "American Idol" saw Lee University student Jermaine Purifory win a golden ticket to the Hollywood round of Fox's top-rated reality TV talent show.
Mr. Purifory, 24, is a telecommunications major at Lee and a member of Voices of Lee, the university's a cappella ensemble that was featured last month on "The Sing-Off."
In his audition, Mr. Purifory sang "Smile," and his version brought a smile to critical judge Simon Cowell's face.
Judge Randy Jackson said it was his favorite audition of the season, and guest judge Kristen Chenoweth told Mr. Purifory she loved his "pure sound."
Mr. Purifory is the second singer from this area to make the Hollywood round.
Ben Honeycutt, a graduate of Plainview High School in Rainsville, Ala., also advanced.
In his video interview on "American Idol's" Web site, Mr. Honeycutt said he is a resident of Fort Oglethorpe, Ga.