Scenes from "American Idol" contestant Elise Testone's New Jersey hometown in Kinnelon introduced her "genius" performance of Lady Gaga's "You and I" on Wednesday night's episode of the hit FOX television singing competition.

FOX crews were shown interviewing friends and relatives at Jiggs' Corner Saloon, in Butler, where they gathered for a viewing party last week when Testone performed "I Want to Know What Love Is." Testone's dad, Vic, was in attendance at the party, as well as Councilmen Jim Freda and Dan O'Dougherty.

See video and photos from the viewing party here.

This week, Testone was guest mentored by Akon and her hard work seemed to pay off as all three judges were impressed with her rendition of the popular song.

"America, please know, this girl is talented. Very dope vocals right there," Randy Jackson said.

Jennifer Lopez said she felt the performance worked for Testone because she was able to let loose.

"You did exactly what you wanted to do. You let go, but you kept control at the same time and that's when you are at your best because there's nobody that can sing like you. You're a closer," Lopez said of Testone, whose performance was the final performance of the night.

Steven Tyler also praised Testone for her version of the song.

"Elise, you took a song that's so simple and effortless and you turned it into genius," Tyler said.

Before her performance, Testone said she had the opportunity to take a break from the singing competition on Sunday and spend quality time with her mother by going to see a movie. She told host Ryan Seacrest that she saw a film starring Actor Jason Segel.

See more coverage of Elise Testone on American Idol here.

As a special surprise, Jason Segel was shown in a video message to Testone sharing his support of the now-South Carolina resident.

"I'm a giant fan of yours and I'm watching the show every week," he said.