Watch Steve Perry Surprise 'American Idol' Contestant After Performance

American Idol has always been good about creating memorable moments, and the revamped version of the show on ABC is no exception.

Contestant Gabby Barrett wowed the crowd on Sunday night with a true-to-the-original version of Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'." Barrett received a well-deserved standing ovation, but as she thanked her band and prepared for comments from judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan, the applause began to surge as the judges pointed to the left of the dais: Steve Perry was in the front row!

After a few moments of confusion, Barrett blurted out, "Oh my gosh, I know who that is!" The cameras turned to Perry's smiling face.

"Steve Perry, oh my gosh, I love you so much!" Barrett gushed from the stage.

Host Ryan Seacrest assured Barrett that they would bring her to meet Perry, after the judges gave their critique. 

"I cannot believe that Steve Perry of Journey is watching you sing 'Don't Stop Believin'," added Katy Perry (no relation). "I feel like he should be the one to give the critique. Good gracious!"

"She was amazing! That's my critique," Steve Perry shouted from his seat, as Seacrest brought Barrett to meet the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.

Seacrest admitted that he and the producers didn't want to psych out Barrett before the song by telling her that Steve Perry was in the audience. After a hug, the former Journey singer continued to praise Barrett.

"It was the most amazing version I've ever heard, I swear it was beautiful, just beautiful," Perry told her. "And I got to meet your parents, too! They love you! They love you!" 

Check out Barrett's performance and the amazing surprise in the video above! 


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