Winner native wows judges on ‘American Idol’

Mallorie Haley made quite an impression on the judges from “American Idol” during an audition in Atlanta.

The 20-year-old from Winner appeared on Wednesday night’s segment of the popular show’s ninth season, breezing through a rendition of Janis Joplin’s “Piece of my Heart” and earning high praise from all four judges on the panel.

“That was great,” said guest judge Mary J. Blige, a singer, record producer and actress. “That was the best vocal I heard. … That was beautiful to me.”

The clip of Haley’s audition on the Fox TV show came after a series of poor performances that left the judges — notorious for their impatience with inept singers — laughing, disgusted or a combination thereof.

And then came Haley, who strode in with a confidence that was noticed by the judges — and especially Simon Cowell, the British judge whose crass and blunt critiques often prompt tears from contestants.

“… You were fearless during that audition,” Cowell said. “You had great fun, great energy. I like you.”

Judge Randy Jackson said he, too, enjoyed the audition. “You’re a really beautiful girl,” he said. “I like you being a country girl.”

Said Judge Kara Dioguardi: “I think what’s great about you is you came in here, you know who you are and what you want to do.”

Dioguardi said Haley’s brief performance was “100 percent amazing.”

The audition was actually held in August in Atlanta, but aired on a national telecast Wednesday. Haley’s family watched on television in Winner.

“We’re just tickled,” said Mallorie’s mother, Tracie Haley, speaking for herself and husband Jim.

Mrs. Haley works as a dental hygienist for Winner dentist Larry Gunner and Mr. Haley is a technician for Golden West.

“She’s worked hard and we’re excited that it’s starting to pay off,” she said.

Mrs. Haley said Wednesday’s “Idol” showed the fourth round of singer eliminations at the Atlanta auditions.

Family members knew about the win since last August but had been sworn to secrecy. The news, she said, somehow made it around town.

Mallorie moved to Nashville shortly after graduating from Winner High School “and she’s just been working on music,” she said.

In addition to singing, writing and recording, Mallorie has been working as a waitress to pay the bills. At Winner High, Mallorie played in the school band and sang in the choir. She plays several instruments, including piano and guitar.

“She’s down there just being a poor musician, trying to make it,” she said.

Mallorie’s first public gig was singing the national anthem at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas when she was 6.

“She always wanted to sing,” she said. “This is what she loves to do.”

Mallorie’s grandparents, Keith and Geneice Gebhart of Winner, are former residents of Mitchell.

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