Dibesh Pokharel, who goes by the stage name Arthur Gunn, has succeeded in wooing both the audience and the judges of the singing reality show American Idol earning a place for him in the top 11.

Originally from Nepal, the 21-year-old artist has had a fiery start from the audition round itself, earning a golden ticket as well as getting called "a rockstar" by one of the judges.

Pokharel, currently residing in Wichita, Kansas, has become the first artist of Nepali origin to gain a spot in the top 10 of the international singing show. And with this win, he is a step closer to winning the coveted title of America’s most famous singing reality show.

Seen as one of this season’s frontrunners, Pokharel sang John Denver’s classic ‘Country Road, Take Me Home’ with a reggae twist in his soulful, textured voice at the latest selection round, competing with the final 20 contestants. The contestants were asked to sing a song that reminded them of their home.

“My friend, it’s all the way for a hit record for you. I love what you did,” said American singer/songwriter and judge Lionel Richie, after listening to his home performance.

After earning a spot at the top 11, Pokharel thanked his supporters and well-wishers through his social media accounts.

“Thank you, everyone, for supporting me since the start, words won’t do justice for how much I appreciate this massive support from all around the world,” wrote Pokharel on an Instagram post.

Next week, Pokharel will be competing with 10 other contestants to secure a place in the top 7 of the reality show.