Two years ago, a video of Gary Barker went viral when his rendition of “Uptown Funk” inspired a crowd of people to bust into a dance-off at a bus stop.
Since his brush with fame, Gary– who regularly sings at various pubs in Liverpool– has gained a sizable following, and his fans were thrilled to see him recently audition on the X Factor!
But Gary’s fans never expected the experienced singer would be cut off just seconds into his song.
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Gary, now 30 and a dad of two, chose “Uptown Funk” for his audition, the song that had previously launched him into virality. But without the energy of the street and the impromptu dancers, the song just fell flat.
In the video below, Gary explains to the judges that he was nervous, asking for another chance.
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Simon looks skeptical. “What we’re looking for is somebody who has an incredible voice… more originality.”
Gary asks for the chance to sing Sam Cookie’s 1964 hit “A Change Is Gonna Come.” While Simon still isn’t totally on board, the judges agree to let Gary sing. And boy does he sing.
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Check out the incredible moment below when Gary blows all the judges away with his unexpected voice!
Share his talent today.
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