Her brother, Donavan Epperson, remembers having to “introduce” his older sister when she would perform for others.
Julie Yonkers of South Middle School, remembers her former choir student as someone who could always be counted on to “light up the stage.”
Now, 19-year-old Joplin native Asia’h Epperson is making her mark in the national spotlight, advancing from thousands of auditioners to a spot among the top 16 contestants on “American Idol.”
With a personal story that captured the attention of “Idol” judges and TV viewers — her father died days before her audition, and she dedicated a song in his memory — as well as her strong vocal delivery, it comes as no surprise that her local fans have gone “Crazia’h for Asia’h.”
Nearly 30 million viewers tuned in Wednesday night and watched as Epperson closed out the show with her rendition of “All By Myself” — an apt description of how the amateur singer has navigated the competition with style and grace, paying tribute to her hometown along the way.
“American Idol” has become a proven launching ground for young singers. Among past competitors who did not ultimately win the title are performers who have sold millions of albums and even an Oscar winner.
We believe she has a bright future ahead of her.
Good luck, Asia’h.
