WATCH: Emmy Russell, Loretta Lynn’s granddaughter, makes top 14 on 'American Idol'

Nashville sweetheart (and granddaughter of Loretta Lynn) Emmy Russell earned her place in the top 14 on "American Idol" Monday night after her performance of an original song "Want You" on the show's Sunday night episode.

Host Ryan Seacrest built the suspense as Russell and her fellow 'Idol' contestants waited backstage to see whose name would be called.

"After the nationwide vote. Emmy. America wants you in the top 14," Seacrest said employing his infamous dramatic pause between words. "Congratulations! You're in. She's gonna sing in celebration. We've seen her confidence growing and growing with each passing week. now she's taking it back to the song that started it all. It's a very personal song. It's called 'Skinny.'"

Russell, clad in ripped jeans, a T-shirt and no shoes, sang her original song and received a standing ovation from the crowd and her boyfriend who was in attendance at the live show.

After her performance, Seacrest asked Russell to put into words how she was feeling.

An emotional Russell said "I just feel like who God made me to be when I sing that song. That's all I want to be."

Russell sings "Want You": Watch: Loretta Lynn's granddaughter Emmy Russell stuns 'American Idol' judges, prompts Luke Bryan bear hug

Her backstory: How American Idol's Emmy Russell continues Loretta Lynn's legacy and what else to know

"American Idol" returns on ABC Sunday, April 21.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: ‘American Idol’: Emmy Russell makes top 14, sings original 'Skinny'