For J Rome, it was all about hitting one note. One big, incredibly high note that his idol Whitney Houston made look easy when she sang ‘I Will Always Love You.’ Jennifer Nettles’ second partner on ‘Duets’ was nervous before beginning his performance on Wednesday night, but the result was familiar.

“It’s really high, and no guys are singing like this,” J Rome said during rehearsals with the Sugarland singer. The Maryland native has been on top of the scoreboard at the end of each week of the ABC reality show, but this song made him very nervous about his capabilities.

“I have to nail it,” he said. “I keep saying that but I have to nail this song.”

He nailed it. J Rome began without Nettles or musical accompaniment, but really showed off the power of his voice during the final chorus, when he and his coach traded lines and emotions. He convinced Robin Thicke he was in love with the newly pregnant Nettles. “There’s a reason you’ve been No. 1 every week,” he said.

Kelly Clarkson joined the other judges and the studio audience in her praise of J Rome. She joked that she wanted to throw a high heel at him because she’s jealous of his talents. Once again, J Rome finished the night at No. 1.

Watch J Rome and Jennifer Nettles Sing ‘I Will Always Love You’

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