Before stepping onto the big stage for her audition on America’s Got Talent in 2016, singer-songwriter Grace VanderWaal shared a sneak peek of what was to come. At just twelve years old, she confidently announced, “I’m doing my own song tonight because I really think that it shows who I am.” Although Grace was born in Kansas, she had made New York her home. “Hopefully. I’m hoping it does,” she added with a hopeful smile.
To put it simply, Grace’s performance blew everyone away! Her incredible talent earned her the title of “the next Taylor Swift” and opened the door to a glittering future. By the end of Season 11, she had walked away with the grand prize of $1 million!
Grace’s Big Moment on AGT
When Judge Simon Cowell asked Grace how she felt about her chances of winning, she responded with a glimmer of hope, “Miracles can happen, so possibly.” Simon then wanted to know what her song meant to her. Grace explained, “It’s about me,” adding that most of her school friends didn’t even know she could sing.
But it didn’t take long for everyone to notice her unique voice and heartfelt songwriting. Backed by her ukulele, Grace lit up the stage 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 passionately. “You say I’m just trying, that’s right.”
The Judges’ Reactions
As the audience fell silent, Grace braced herself for the judges’ verdicts. What would they think of her performance? Howie Mandel was the first to share his thoughts, not holding back at all.
“This is a show about surprises,” he declared. “You referred to yourself as a miracle, and in my opinion, you are a gorgeous, walking miracle.” He pointed out the originality in her lyrics, saying, “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.”
With that, Howie pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending Grace straight into the live performances. Overwhelmed with emotion, Grace burst into tears, and Howie rushed over to give her a big hug. “You are incredible,” he said, clearly moved by her talent.
Simon chimed in next, saying that Grace’s ability to draw from her personal experiences reminded him of a true pop star. “Grace, you know what I predict for you? You could be the next Taylor Swift,” he said, clearly impressed.
“What a wonderful girl! What a wonderful personality!” Simon exclaimed to the other judges.
Heidi Klum couldn’t contain her excitement, commenting, “Amazing! That truly is amazing.”
“She is unique,” Mel B added, nodding in agreement.
Curious, Howie asked Simon, “Do you believe that you are now a star?”
“I think we’ve got a star,” Simon replied, a bit annoyed he didn’t get to press the Golden Buzzer himself.
After her triumphant time on America’s Got Talent, Grace VanderWaal took her talents further by acting in Stargirl and recording albums. She even played a pop star in Francis Ford Coppola’s upcoming film, Megalopolis.
What do you think about Grace’s journey? Share your thoughts in the comments!
