"American Idol" said goodbye to one of its most celebrated singers on Thursday as the Season 11 Final 2, who will compete for the title, were revealed.
(SPOILER: This story contains the results of "Idol.")
PLAY IT NOW: Is Jennifer Lopez Leaving American Idol?
Joshua Ledet was eliminated on Thursday, sending Phillip Phillips and the once-eliminated, but saved by the judges, Jessica Sanchez to the finals.
The Southern singer gave one of his most passionate performances after hearing the elimination news, tackling the soul classic, "It's A Man's Man's Man's World."
VIEW THE PHOTOS: American Idol Season 11: The Final 3
As Joshua strode across the stage, he embraced judge Jennifer Lopez, who appeared very upset by the news that the singer -- who regularly impressed the judges during the season -- was going home.
Earlier this month, after performing "To Love Somebody," by the Bee Gees, Randy Jackson said Joshua's time on the show would always be a high mark in the competition's history.
"You're one of the best singers on this show. Ever. Ever. No matter what goes down, you're one of the best singers ever on this show... That was incredible. Nobody can do that better," he said at the time.
VIEW THE PHOTOS: Reality Stars In Their Swimsuits
And Jennifer went one step further.
"I think you're one of the best singers I've seen in 50 years, I mean, it's crazy, baby. Honestly. People since James Brown and all those people, the greatest soul singers and performers ever, honestly with the right records? Jimmy [Iovine], you better not mess this up," Jennifer said.
VIEW THE PHOTOS: She’s Still Just Jenny From The Block! Hot Shots Of Jennifer Lopez!
During the elimination show, "Idol" also took a brief moment to pay tribute to the late Donna Summer.
Reflecting on the superstar's passing, actress/singer Rita Wilson said, "Her music really did define a decade. You couldn't live in the '70s and not sing along to every single one of her songs. She was an amazing woman, amazing talent. Gorgeous voice."
"Idol" mentor Jimmy added, "I think everyone in the dance music business today owes something to Donna Summer."
"American Idol" returns for the Season 11 Final, from L.A. Live, on Wednesday at 8/7c on FOX.
Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.