Phillip Phillips is one of American Idol’s most unique talents this year. He’s a charming southern young man who is not afraid to just be himself. As part of MIT Phillip found himself in the middle of one of the most tension filled groups performing.

Alongside Heejun, Richie and Jairon, Phillip showed us an entirely different side. Though his voice is bluesy, he made an easy transition to a more R&B sound. MIT blended well together for the most part, well aside from egotistical Richie’s awkward country-kermit-the-frog voice, moving the entire team into the top 98.

During the individual performances, Philip took on Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Games.” When he sings there is so much passion in his voice, it’s as if he related to every word he sings. The best part of watching Phillip is that he’s not afraid to make any song his own. I’ll admit, I didn’t catch at first it was “Wicked Games.”

Phillip will bring even more talent to the table as he works his way into the top 24, and ultimately top 12.