Carrie Underwood was shocked when Carnie and Wendy Wilson of Wilson Phillips crashed an American Idol audition. (Photo credit: American Idol/YouTube)
Two weeks after the Backstreet Boys’ Brian Littrell crashed his son’s American Idol audition, Carnie Wilson of Wilson Phillips fame did the same to her daughter.
Lola Sofia Bonfiglio has an incredible musical heritage that she brought to Sunday’s episode of American Idol. Not only is her mom Carnie Wilson of the legendary pop trio Wilson Phillips, but her grandfather is Beach Boys’ lead singer Brian Wilson.
Wilson Phillips was one of the greatest all-female trios in music history. Made up of Carnie Wilson, her sister Wendy, and Chyna Phillips (daughter of The Mamas & The Papas singers John and Michelle Phillips). Their debut album has sold more than 10 million copies since its release in 1990.
Their singles “Hold On,” “Impulsive,” and “Release Me” helped earn them a massive fan base and numerous award nominations. The trio split after the release of their second album but has reunited for special events in the years since.
Lola Bonfiglio brought out her mom and aunt for a special performance of “Hold On” during her Idol audition.
19-year-old Lola entered the audition room with her dad, Rob, who was set to accompany her on guitar. She told the judges that she needed to get some family members before she started singing. She summoned her mom, Carnie, and aunt, Wendy.
When the Wilson Phillips singers entered the room, Carrie Underwood‘s surprise was evident. She was left speechless and admitted to not knowing how to proceed with the audition. The trio sang Wilson Phillips’ biggest hit, “Hold On.”
When they were done, Carrie pointed out the family harmonies. “Everybody’s just genetically designed to sound good together.”
The judges asked Lola to sing by herself so they could get a clear idea of her voice.
Lola performed Kacey Musgraves’ “Rainbow” for her audition. She told the camera beforehand that the audition was going to push her because she is used to singing with her family.
“I’m just excited to grow from this experience and push myself,” she said.
The judges praised her performance. Luke Bryan told her, “The tone and the pureness and the quality of your voice, that’s the perfect song for you. But, this competition is going to require you to belt too, and kind of let loose a little bit and fill up the room a little more.”
Carrie agreed and added that Lola has an honesty in her voice and her presence. “I want to see you own your talent and everything that you have to offer, because you have a lot to offer.”
The judges unanimously agreed to send Lola to Hollywood.
Watch Lola’s audition, complete with a surprise appearance from her mom and aunt, in the video below.