VIDEOS: Bentonville native advances to next round of 'American Idol'

Bentonville teenager Thomas Stringfellow is one step closer to being in the top 24 on American Idol after winning over the judges during group competition this week.

Group performances from Hollywood Week aired Thursday on Fox as the singing competition continues to narrow down the number of contestants.

Stringfellow, 17, was part of a four-member group that sang a rendition of X Ambassador's "Renegades."

American Idol judge Harry Connick Jr. was critical of the group's performance as a whole, calling it "average."

But Stringfellow, Connick Jr. said, stood out among the members with his stage presence.

"The only one of you who I could peek into their soul a little bit was Thomas," Connick Jr. said.

Stringfellow and Thomas Muglia, 17, of Gilbert, Ariz., advanced to the next round of American Idol's 15th and final season.

Stringfellow's performance of Alex Clare's "Too Close" aired earlier in the week, ArkansasOnline previously reported. That performance secured his spot in the group round.

The contestants who made it to the top 24 are expected to be announced next week.

A teaser 360-degree video released earlier this month by the singing competition shows the top 24, disguised with dark lighting, performing American Authors' "Best Day of My Life."

American Idol airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays on Fox.

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Posted by American Idol on Monday, January 4, 2016

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