Gina Venier & Friends

In 2014, while living in Nashville, Gina Venier auditioned for Season 14 of Fox’s American Idol. With her soulful voice, and “one woman-band” set up of cajon, kick pedal, guitar, and “lucky egg,” Venier wow-ed producers and judges with her first audition of ZZ Ward’s “Put The Gun Down.” After all three judges gave her a “yes” she was through to Hollywood. Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez, and Harry Conick Jr. were continually surprised and impressed by the unique performances she brought to the show. Lopez called her a, “funky, funky girl” and Urban would frequently comment on Venier’s “true artistry.” Gina made it to the season’s overall Top 48 contestants, and was Top 24 for female contenders.