Filipino-Mexican contender Jessica Sanchez continues to gain popularity in the reality talent seach “American Idol.” Sanchez received a standing ovation from the judges after she performed her own version of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You.”

American Idol judge Randy Jackson said it is but right to “give it all” for Jessica Sanchez, whom he commends to be “one of the best singers of this whole competition.”

“Jessica Sanchez is legit. Let me tell you something. This is one of the hardest songs in the world to sing. You not only are the best vocal of the night, I think you are one of the best singers of this whole competition. Oh my God,” Jackson said.

Jennifer Lopez, another American idol judge, was left almost speechless and had nothing much to say but praises for the 16-year old singer.

“Just amazing. I don’t even know what to say. I’m speechless. I’m speechless when you did those last three little things, we were right there with you,” Lopez said. She also added, “I think you were even surprised that you were sobbing. I was like, oh my God! That was when I felt Whitney. Oh my God yes! It was beautiful Jessica! You are so talented. God bless you.”

When American Idol host Ryan Seacrest asked the judges to name the night’s top two contestants, Steven Tyler said, “Jessica Sanchez and Jessica Sanchez.” Tyler also added that Sanchez “just made 40 million people cry.”

Even former “American Idol” contestant Jennifer Hudson, who sang “I Will Always Love You” during the tribute to Houston at this year’s Grammy Awards, posted a positive tweet about the performance of Jessica Sanchez.

Aside from Sanchez, the judges also gave rave reviews for Texas’ Hollie Cavanagh.