Marcio Donaldson is a singer who first appeared on season 15 of American Idol, but he was cut from the competition when the judges decided he did not have enough experience to make it as a singer. Now that he’s older and wiser, Marcio decided to try out for American Idol once again this year, and his story has already touched millions of fans.

Marcio, 28, had a very difficult upbringing, but music was always there to give him hope.

“Growing up in that neighborhood, it was a lot of shooting, a lot substance abuse, a lot of people who did not see the age of 13 years old,” he said. “My mother tried her hardest but children services ended up placing me and my sister in the system so I found refuge in my music.”

Everything changed when his sister, a drug addict, got pregnant. When his sister was deemed to be unable to take care of her baby Rashaad, Marcio was presented with a life changing decision by authorities: either adopt his baby nephew, or have him go into the foster care system, where life would undoubtedly be difficult for him. Without hesitating, Marcio decided to adopt Rashaad and become his dad.

During his emotional audition, Marcio entered the room with Rashaad in his arms. Judge Luke Bryan offered to hold Rashaad while his adopted dad performed his rendition of Labrinth’s “Jealous.” By the end of the song, Marcio could not help but break down in tears as he was overcome with emotion. The judges consoled him by giving him a one way ticket to Hollywood, letting Marcio know that all the sacrifices he has made for Rashaad have not been in vain!

Check out Marcio’s audition below, and SHARE this story if it touches you!