The four judges of America’s Got Talent, Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara and Heidi Klum have seen and heard it all.
But sometimes, the show still holds big surprises, often in small packages.
Eleven-year-old contestant D’Corey Johnson stepped to the stage looking very handsome, winning them with his charm before nailing his spot with an impressive rendition of a classic rock ballad.
This young man just sang Journey’s “Open arms”.
Johnson first introduced himself, giving the four judges some background information about him, including his career aspirations.
“I wanna be on Broadway and I wanna be in movies and I want to be in Hamilton and Wicked,” he said.
He then tells Simon that he is his favorite judge because he “keeps it real like my momma.”
The Louisville sensation became pretty popular after singing the National Anthem, later going on tour for three months to perform across America.
And at such a young age!
So now, onto the AGT stage in a suit, bowtie and full smile, ready to impress others even further.
“Open arms” was released in 1981, written by original Journey frontman Steve Perry and keyboardist Jonathan Cain.
Perry is still recognized as one of the greatest male singers of all time with that out of this world range and tone of his.
The song is anything but easy to sing, but Johnson has all the confidence in the world.
It is one of the world’s best power ballads, a heartfelt powerhouse that can have any heartbroken person crying instantly.
Johnson just smashes his cover, the audience cheering then standing as soon as he finished.
But Simon wanted more from the kid.
“Do you mind if I ask you to sing up to the chorus without the backing track?” Cowell asked.
His family shouted “You got it!” while looking down at him as Johnson collected himself to sing a capella.
He takes a deep breath, then sings again, this time with only his voice to prove to everyone that he is the real deal.
“Simon is so good…asking him to sing without the backing took the shake(nerves) out of his voice and he sounded even better. With a good coach and more experience he’ll be a star for sure. Hope he does well in agt!” says a very impressed viewer.
And as soon as he finishes, Simon is on his feet, applauding D’Corey for a job well done.
When you impress Simon, you know you’ve made it.
But really, have you ever heard an 11-year-old sing a classic power ballad?
Arnel Pineda is still with Journey but if they ever need a new vocalist, Johnson may be able to inject new life into the troubled band.
Let’s hear him sing “Separate ways” or “Stone in love”!
He’s so good, even Terry Crews was all smiles as the crowd roared their approval.
Johnson, on the verge of tears, will surely surprise AGT fans more in the coming months!
Watch and listen to this amazing young singer below!
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