Music superstar Katie Perry knows a diamond in the rough when she hears one, and Sunday night on American Idol, Perry said she heard that sparkling voice in a Mississippi high school senior who auditioning for this year’s reality TV talent competition.

Jennifer Jeffries, 17, of Starkville wowed Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan during Sunday night’s episode.

“I was not expecting that voice,” Bryan said after listening to Jeffries’ audition, calling Jeffries an “amazingly unique voice that I don’t think we’ve ever had.”

Perry said she recognized a “unique grit” in Jeffries’ voice as she performed “Change My Ways,” a song that she wrote for herself.

“Oh god, it’s so Mississippi,” Perry said about her voice. “It’s so raw.”

Richie agreed.

“What I’m in love with is your uniqueness,” Richie said.

Perry even said even Jeffries’ name is unique.

“I don’t know is that your real name?” Perry asked.

“Yes, ma’am,” Jeffries replied.

“Well, names are not an accident,” Perry said. “That is your soul right there. And your would done named you for stardom. You gotta take your first step.”

All three judges gave Jeffries a resounding “Yes” and handed her a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.

Jeffries is a high school senior and is the youngest of nine children.