Before making her stage debut on America’s Got Talent in 2016, singer-songwriter Grace VanderWaal offered a sneak peek during her audition.
At just twelve years old, Grace, originally from Kansas but living in New York at the time, said, “I’m doing my own song tonight because I think it really shows who I am. Hopefully. I hope it does.”
In short, the answer was a resounding yes.
Her performance quickly earned her comparisons to “the next Taylor Swift” because of her raw talent, and it set her on a path to stardom, eventually winning the $1 million prize in AGT Season 11.
Grace VanderWaal’s AGT Audition Interview
When Simon Cowell asked if she thought she could win, Grace answered, “Miracles can happen, so possibly.”
When Simon inquired about the song she would perform, she responded, “It’s about me.” She also shared that most of her friends didn’t even know she sang.
Grace’s unique voice and heartfelt songwriting were soon apparent to both her friends and all AGT viewers.
From the moment she strummed her ukulele and sang “I Don’t Know My Name”, a deeply emotional song about discovering her identity, Grace captivated the audience. The song’s lyrics, “My name is unknown to me. I don’t follow the rules of the game. So you say, I’m just trying right now,” resonated deeply.
Judges’ Reactions
After Grace’s stunning performance, the judges were eager to offer their feedback.
Howie Mandel, never one to hold back, quickly shared his thoughts. “This is a show about surprises,” he said. “I believe you are a living, beautiful, walking miracle.” He pointed out that Grace’s lyrics were both personal and universal. “You’re unique. Everyone will know your name. It’s both good and bad that others don’t know it yet, but they will soon.”
With his Golden Buzzer press, Howie sent Grace straight to the live performances, rushing to hug her as she cried tears of joy. “You are incredible,” he said.
Simon, impressed by Grace’s ability to turn her personal experiences into music, likened her to a pop sensation. “Grace, I think you’re going to be the next Taylor Swift,” he said, admiring both her talent and character. “What a wonderful girl. What a wonderful character.”
Heidi Klum couldn’t contain her excitement, exclaiming, “Wow, that’s really amazing.”
Mel B agreed, calling her “unique.”
When Howie asked Simon if he thought they had found a star, Simon confidently replied, “I firmly believe we have a star,” though he expressed his frustration at not being able to hit the Golden Buzzer himself.
After her rise to fame on America’s Got Talent, Grace expanded her career into acting, starring in Stargirl and recording music. She also plays a pop star in Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis.
