Just before her thrilling moment on America’s Got Talent in 2016, singer-songwriter Grace VanderWaal gave everyone a taste of what was to come. At only twelve years old, she confidently said, “I’m doing my own song tonight because I really think that it shows who I am.” Grace was born in Kansas but was living in New York at that time. “Hopefully. I’m hoping it does,” she added, filled with hope and excitement.
And wow, did it ever! Grace’s stunning performance earned her the nickname “the next Taylor Swift.” This remarkable moment kicked off a glittering journey for her, and by the end of Season 11, she walked away with an incredible prize of $1 million!
Grace’s Amazing AGT Audition
When Judge Simon Cowell asked Grace how she felt about winning, she replied with a bright smile, “Miracles can happen, so possibly.” He wanted to know more about her song, and she replied, “It’s about me.” Grace opened up, saying that most of her school friends “don’t really know I sing.”
But that was all about to change! Grace had a special voice and a gift for writing heartfelt songs that her friends and AGT viewers would soon notice.
With her ukulele in hand, Grace captivated everyone from the very first note of her emotional song, “I Don’t Know My Name.”
“My name is unknown to me. I don’t play by the rules of the game,” she sang with passion. “You say I’m just trying, that’s right.”
What Did the Judges Think?
As the audience went quiet, Grace eagerly waited to hear what the judges thought of her performance. Howie Mandel was the first to speak, and he was excited to share his thoughts.
“This is a show about surprises,” he said enthusiastically. “You referred to yourself as a miracle, and in my opinion, you are a gorgeous, walking miracle.” Howie highlighted a line in her song, saying, “You’re original. I believe that everyone will know your name, so it’s both right and wrong for people not to know it yet. They will probably recognize your name by now.”
Then, in a thrilling moment, Howie pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending Grace straight into the live performances! Overcome with emotion, Grace burst into tears of joy, and Howie rushed over to give her a big hug. “You are incredible,” he told her warmly.
Next, Simon chimed in, impressed by Grace’s ability to draw inspiration from her own life. “Grace, you know what I predict for you? You could be the next Taylor Swift,” he said confidently.
“What a wonderful girl! What a wonderful personality!” Simon exclaimed to the other judges.
Heidi Klum couldn’t hold back her excitement, commenting, “Amazing! That truly is amazing.”
“She is unique,” Mel B added, nodding with approval.
Curious about Simon’s thoughts, Howie asked, “Do you believe that you are now a star?”
“I think we’ve got a star,” Simon replied, a little annoyed that he didn’t get to hit the Golden Buzzer himself.
After gaining fame on America’s Got Talent, Grace VanderWaal launched her acting career in Stargirl and has since released several albums. She even stars as a pop star in Francis Ford Coppola’s upcoming movie, Megalopolis.
What do you think about Grace’s amazing journey? Share your thoughts in the comments!
