Have you ever heard a singing voice that just doesn’t seem to match the person it’s coming from?
One such performer is the late, great rock singer Janis Joplin. Her smokey, raspy voice rolled out of a petite frame and captivated everyone who had the pleasure of seeing her live. Speaking of Janis Joplin, there’s one shy teenager who’s continuing the legendary singer’s legacy.
Courtney Hadwin is the teen in question. When she took to the “America’s Got Talent” stage, no one could believe what they were hearing.
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When Courtney stepped in front of the judges’ table, she was visibly nervous. Singer Mel B was instantly charmed by the sweet girl and she assured Courtney that feeling a bit anxious was totally natural.
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But of course, the judges all looked a bit skeptical. Did this adorable ball of anxiety have what it’d take to wow them?
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Before launching into her performance, Courtney took a deep breath and looked down at her feet to collect herself. But what came out of her mouth is the absolute last thing anyone expected.
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The moment the music to The Black Crowes’ “Hard to Handle” started playing, she transformed. With her long hair flowing, Courtney let the music take her away from all of the stress she was feeling before.
And that’s when they heard it: an incredible rock-and-roll voice reminiscent of Joplin’s coming out of a girl who could barely squeak out two words to the judges just seconds before.
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Soon, every single person in the audience was on their feet. The tiny rocker’s truly unique voice and stage presence prove that while some abilities can be taught, there are a blessed few who have totally innate talent. There’s no way to teach someone what she can do.
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“You were like this tiny little thing when you came out, but when you sing, you’re like a lion. I mean, genuinely incredible,” Simon Cowell noted when the song was through. Howie Mandel was equally impressed. He told the story of how Janis Joplin first got signed before doing what Courtney never expected. He hit that golden buzzer! The talented young lady totally broke down.
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Watch Courtney blow everyone’s minds in the video down below, and if you’re stunned by her incredible performance, be sure to share this with all the music lovers in your life!
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