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American Idol

American Idol Finds Big Talent, Big Drama in Texas

Originally posted 01/27/2012 08:30AM

It was American Idol's ninth visit to Texas, the same state where Kelly Clarkson was discovered a decade ago. And judging by Thursday's episode, taped in Houston, the judges may have found a competitor to match the original Idol's talent.

Kristine Osorio was the night's clear highlight and her stunning version of Adele's "One and Only" immediately caused Jennifer Lopez to remark, "Thank you, God!" Osorio, a 28-year-old student, also has one of the season's more compelling back-stories. A mother of three whose music career was sidelined when she got pregnant, Osorio is struggling to pay bills and embattled in a divorce from her husband. But instead of paying off her legal fees, Osorio chose to pay for a ticket to audition instead. Wise move: Steven Tyler praised her "beautiful tenor" and all three judges unanimously agreed to send her to Hollywood.

Ramiro Garcia also had one of the more heartbreaking stories of the night. The 28-year-old was born without ears and doctors had initially said he would be mute. But at age 4, he underwent reconstructive surgeries and eventually became able to hear. Garcia wowed the judges with his soulful version of "Amazing Grace." (Watch a clip below.) "I like what I'm hearing," said Tyler. "I like your insides as well. You're a power of example, to say the least."

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