Scott McCreery hopes that what happens in Las Vegas leaves Las Vegas.

McCreery made it out of the Hollywood tryouts in Thursday’s episode of the popular Fox program “American Idol,” becoming one of 50 contestants still standing in the quest to become this year’s idol. The program heads to Las Vegas next where the singers left in the competition will be required to tackle a Beatles’ song.

McCreery, a high schooler from Garner, is the grandson of Aberdeen residents Bill and Paquita McCreery.

In Thursday’s episode, McCreery struggled with the lyrics of “I Hope You Dance,” a song made popular by country singer Lee Ann Womack. But, based on his previous efforts and his rich, deep bass voice, judges Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson punched the 17-year-old’s ticket to the Las Vegas round.

If he survives Las Vegas, he’ll head back to Hollywood as one of 20 remaining contestants in the battle for singing supremacy.