Barton brings it in 'Idol' performance

Tuesday night on "American Idol," Virginia Beach's Felicia Barton had more to prove than her fellow contestants. She wanted to show the judges she deserved a spot in the top 36, even though she was not initially selected for that semi final round.

Only a few weeks earlier, the 27-year-old worship leader was sent home from Hollywood but was given a second shot at singing when one of the top 36 was deemed ineligible.

"A couple days ago I was just a mom that sang, and today I'm back in the top 36 of 'American Idol.' And my dream is coming true," Barton said in a taped interview before her performance. "I'm going to prove to the judges that I deserve to be here. "

Hitting the stage in a black sequined top paired with black skinny jeans, sassy heels and a dark plum jacket, Barton belted out "No One" by Alicia Keys, one of her favorites from when she performed on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.

Upon finishing her solid performance, Barton blew a kiss to husband Loren and son Malachi in the audience.

The judge's comments were positive overall.

"You are not only gorgeous on the outside. Your talent, your gift is unbelievable," Paula Abdul said. "You know, I'm so glad we brought you back. And I hope we bring you back next week, and the week after. "

Simon Cowell said, "You certainly came back to prove a point, didn't you?" His only criticism was that it was "a bit copycat."

Randy Jackson echoed Abdul's compliments: "I'm really happy that you're back. You've got an amazing voice.... Welcome back, baby!"

Voters had to call in to select which three of the 12 singers who performed Tuesday will join the final group of 12 singers.

Tonight's broadcast at 8 p.m. on Fox will reveal who made the cut. Even if Barton doesn't make one of the three spots, she still has a shot during the wild-card episode Thursday.