LIVINGSTON PARISH - The country singing, guitar playing, French Settlement High graduate, 18-year-old Laine Hardy is now one of the top 8 contestants on ABC's American Idol. Monday night the show featured Hardy and his Louisiana upbringing as family watched at home.

"From last year to this time, he's a completely different person," said older brother Kyle.

It's Hardy's second season on the show. Hardy made it to the Hollywood rounds but was eliminated in the "final judgment."

Many now hope the Livingston Parish native makes it all the way. American Idol airs Sundays at 7 p.m. on WBRZ.