On Wednesday (5/4) night’s American Idol, James Durbin showed us that he is a rocker–but one with a soft, tender heart.

While listening to the lyrics of Without You as performed by Harry Nillson, tears rolled down James’ face and he simply broke down. He later said he is on the show to make a better life for his family and he gets extremely sad when his family comes to briefly visit him but has to leave to allow him to work on reaching his goal and dreams.

SEE MORE: WATCH JAMES’ RENDITION OF CLOSER TO THE EDGE

James was again moved to tears and overcame with emotion during his live performance. Here is what the judges had to say:

Randy Jackson: “As Steven and Jennifer will attest to, this is a mark of truly a great performer. I could feel your emotion as we started, as we were watching the package, and you thinking about your family and the journey that you’re on here and I tell you man, just fighting back through the emotions, for you to give a vocal like you gave, no, it wasn’t perfect, but it was emotionally perfect…I’m telling you right now, this competition is yours to lose.”

Steven Tyler: “James man, when you sing as good as you do and you can let a song get the best of you. That’s crazy time, that’s a beautiful thing. That’s as beautiful as it gets. I loved that. Pitchy at times in a strange James Durbin kinda way. Your emotions were incredible.”

Jennifer Lopez: “That’s the thing with you. Everyone knows you can sing. You’re not just the guy that can wail right into the stratosphere. You have the heart and soul to back it up. You are an artist. You are a true true artist. He’s amazing you guys. Amazing.”