Military veteran Benjamin Hightower made a brave choice to leave the service after seven years to pursue his passion for performing, a decision that paid off with a successful audition on America’s Got Talent. Benjamin performed a moving rendition of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” a song about leaving a small town to chase a dream.
While singing, he looked at his mother in the audience as he delivered the lyrics about making his “mama proud,” a detail that judge Howie Mandel pointed out.
The judges were deeply impressed by his performance. Howie praised his unique take on the song, suggesting it could become a hit. Sofia Vergara called it “the perfect audition,” affirming that this is what Benjamin was meant to be doing.
Heidi Klum was captivated by his voice’s “raspiness and vibrato,” as well as his overall stage presence. Even Simon Cowell, who admitted he initially expected a typical performance, was pleasantly surprised, appreciating that Benjamin made the song his own.
Benjamin received four “yes” votes, securing his place in the competition. The emotional veteran later expressed that the kid who grew up in Tennessee would be “so proud” of this moment.
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