Simon Cowell, the judge from America’s Got Talent that everyone loves to hate, is a challenging person to please. Known for his blunt, sometimes harsh critiques, Simon is never afraid to speak his mind.
But, as he’s proven time and time again, that also means supporting and praising the acts that manage to impress him. Here’s a look back at five of the top AGT entertainers that the controversial judge personally loved!
- Detroit Youth Choir
The Detroit Youth Choir, Terry Crew’s Golden Buzzer pick from season 14, touched the judges’ hearts with their incredible talent and inspiring mission: helping young people throughout the Detroit Metropolitan area develop their creative skills and talents.
For their audition, the group performed an electrifying rendition of Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’s “Can’t Hold Us,” which Simon described as unexpected and worthy of the big prize. Take a look:
2.Kodi Lee
With over 8 million views on YouTube alone, Kodi Lee’s performance is one of the most viral moments in the show’s history.
The blind and autistic young musician delivered a raw and emotional rendition of Leon Russell’s “A Song for You,” which left everyone, Simon included, in total awe. Simon praised his performance as extraordinary and something he will remember for the rest of his life.
He’s one of the most loved AGT entertainers in the show’s history.
- World Taekwondo Demonstration Team
When they stepped on stage at America’s Got Talent, the judges met the Californian martial arts group excitedly and enthusiastically.
Moreover, they managed to get Simon to say WOW before they even started their act.
The group then delivered a jaw-dropping performance that captivated everyone watching and got a standing ovation from all judges.
Simon described it as one of the most extraordinary things he’s seen in all the years he’s been on the show.
Check it out!
- Tyler Butler-Figueroa
Tyler Butler-Figueroa, a young violinist from North Carolina, is one of Simon’s personal Golden Buzzer recipients.
The young musician, also a cancer survivor, blew the judges away with his violin performance of Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger,” demonstrating his incredible talent.
He’s one of the AGT entertainers that won the audience over as soon as he stepped on stage. Take a look:
- Sal Valentinetti
Sal Valentinetti, a jazz singer from New York and Heidi Klum’s Golden Buzzer pick from 11, finished the competition in the top five.
Although he admitted that he was not initially impressed by Sal’s talent, Simon Cowell quickly changed his mind as Sal showcased his incredible chops covering Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.”
“You can’t fake it when you want to sing this music. It’s either in you, or it’s not. And you’re an old soul, ” said Simon commenting on his soulful audition.
Check it out in the video below:
