Patti LaBelle and Kolbi Jordan Deliver Powerful ‘Lady Marmalade’ Duet on American Idol Finale

The American Idol Grand Finale was nothing short of spectacular, and music legend Patti LaBelle helped raise the bar even higher. She returned to the Idol stage with power, grace, and a heart full of soul. But what made this moment even more magical was her duet with one of this season’s standout contestants, Kolbi Jordan.

Dressed in a dazzling gold gown, Kolbi Jordan joined her musical hero on stage for a soulful, energetic performance of “Lady Marmalade.” Originally made famous by the group LaBelle in 1974, the song remains a powerhouse anthem, and Jordan did justice to every note. The chemistry between the two was clear from the first beat to their final, sky-high harmonies. After the song, the two embraced warmly as the audience rose to their feet with cheers.

Why Was Kolbi Jordan’s Duet With Patti LaBelle So Special?

Kolbi Jordan’s journey on American Idol has been inspiring. She was the first contestant this season to earn the coveted Platinum Ticket, a pass that pushed her straight to the second round of Hollywood Week. Her audition performance of Chrisette Michele’s “Epiphany” blew the judges away and earned unanimous approval.

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Although she didn’t make it all the way to the finale, her return for this Grand Finale moment was a full-circle celebration. Singing alongside Patti LaBelle—an artist she’s long admired—was clearly a dream come true.

Their duet wasn’t just a performance. It was a moment that celebrated talent across generations, showing what happens when passion meets legacy. Fans on social media couldn’t stop raving about the collaboration, with many calling it one of the highlights of the night.

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Who Else Took the Stage at This Year’s Grand Finale?

The finale was packed with other emotional and electric performances. The Top 3 finalists were each paired with a famous artist, continuing the tradition of blending Idol talent with big-name stars.

• Canaan James Hill, a past Idol hopeful, joined gospel great Kirk Franklin to sing “Melodies From Heaven” and “Love Theory.”
• Breanna Nix, one of this season’s finalists, teamed up with Christian singer-songwriter Brandon Lake for a powerful version of “Daddy’s DNA.”
• Country legend Luke Bryan took the stage with John Foster to perform “Deeper Than the Holler.”
• Jelly Roll, the show’s artist-in-residence, brought emotional depth while performing “Unpretty” and “Liar” with finalist Jamal Roberts.

Other incredible duets included:

• The Idol judges singing “Stuck On You” as a trio
• The War and Treaty joining forces with former finalist Thunderstorm Artis
• Goo Goo Dolls performing their hit “Iris” with Mattie Pruitt

The American Idol Grand Finale was more than just the close of a season. It was a celebration of musical dreams, raw talent, and unforgettable pairings. Patti LaBelle and Kolbi Jordan’s performance of “Lady Marmalade” proved that Idol still knows how to create moments that stay with you long after the lights go down.

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