Needless to say, Underwood understands what the Idol contestants are feeling when they step into the audition room. She formed a particularly strong connection with one hopeful contestant this season, 25-year-old Breanna Nix.

Nix came to her audition with her husband and their young son, Emerson. The sweet little boy made his way to Underwood, who quickly picked him up and brought him to the judges’ table.

When Nix introduced herself as “just a stay-at-home mom,” Underwood said, “never say I’m just a stay-at-home mom…you have the most important job.”

Breanna Nix Delivers Emotional Rendition Of Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take The Wheel”

When the judges asked Nix what she planned to sing, she said she prepared a cover of Underwood’s powerful song, “Jesus, Take the Wheel.”

Nix must have felt intense pressure as she sang “Jesus, Take the Wheel” in the Idol audition room in front of Carrie Underwood herself. But she didn’t have any need to worry. Underwood, Bryan, and Richie were all moved by her performance.

The moment was made extra touching as little Emerson dozed off in Underwood’s arms while his mama sang.

Carrie Underwood holds Breanna Nix’s son, Emerson, during her audition for Season 23 of “American Idol.” (Photo Credit: American Idol / YouTube)
Between Nix’s beautiful performance and seeing sleepy little Emerson, Underwood got choked up at the end of the song. With tears in her eyes, she asked Luke Bryan to speak first.

The video Idol shared of Nix’s audition was just a sneak peek. So you’ll have to tune in to the new season to see if she earned a Golden Ticket to Hollywood. But based on the judges’ reactions to her performance, we have faith she did!

Watch Breanna Nix sing “Jesus, Take the Wheel” on American Idol in the video below.