A Jacksonville teen could soon be a huge star.
People around the country watched Wednesday night as 16-year-old Tyanna Jones auditioned for "American Idol."Jones' journey hasn't been easy.
One of Jones' first performances was on stage in her north-side church sanctuary. But her talents have taken her beyond the microphones in her church: she's now headed to Hollywood.
Jones' singing has now landed her a spot on "American Idol."
The 16-year-old won the judges over Wednesday night.
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“Everybody was telling me, 'Well Tyanna, when you turn 16 this is going to be your shot,'” said Jones.
Jones tells Action News she's been singing since the age of 5
“She would always sing, she was loud,” said Timothy Jones, a family member.
But it's not just her powerful voice that has brought her this far.
Tyanna Jones is one of 11 children.
Her parents said the struggles she's overcome, like being homeless for about eight months has greatly influenced her. They lived and slept on the church floor.
“Uncomfortable it was just uncomfortable,” said Tamara Jonessaid of sleeping on the church floor.
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The Jones family said they had to wash up in the church bathroom when they had no other place to go.
“Financially it was such a struggle for us. We lost our home,” said Tamara Jones.
But those trials have turned to victories for this struggling family.
Tyanna Jones says that getting the golden ticket means more than anything.
Her goal is to bring home a contract and win America over.
“All the way, hopefully to be the winner,” said Tyanna Jones.
Tyanna Jones' mother said they leave for Hollywood next month. You can watch "American Idol" on Fox 30.