I think she was pandering, too...since when do the Idols go into a long discourse on the meaning of their songs in tears? I can see “I miss my grandmother” but civil rights and change???
She lost it when Paula mentioned her dreams coming true, too. Then when Simon cbimed in and agreed with Paula against Randy she lost it again and talked about how she researched the history of the song. Since she is black, I believe her when she said it meant a lot to her. I really doubt she was pandering for votes. At least she doesn’t cry every week like that last one that left.