Some kids will do anything to get a puppy… even if it means they have to win a million dollars on a televised talent show.
Jeffrey Li of Toronto, Canada, is just thirteen, but he’s already established himself as a singer to watch. We first heard about Jeffrey when he was ten, and he sang a beautiful duet of Josh Groban’s “You Raise Me Up” with seven year-old Celine Tam for a Chinese talent show. Now, it’s Jeffrey’s time to shine solo on “America’s Got Talent.”
YouTube
As Jeffrey steps onto the “America’s Got Talent” stage, he doesn’t even look remotely nervous. The theater is packed with people, but Jeffrey simply smiles and says he’s just pleased to be there. When Simon Cowell asks him what he’d do if he won the million dollar prize, Jeffrey’s answer is a sweet reminder that he’s still just a kid at heart.
“I’m an only child, so I’d love a companion, a dog,” he says simply. You can see Simon’s softer side begin to emerge at this answer; it’s well known that Simon is a tremendous animal lover.
YouTube
When asked why he selected “You Raise Me Up,” Jeffrey explains, “It really helped me when I was sad, and when I’m lonely.”
“Because you haven’t got a dog,” Simon says flatly, and Jeffrey agrees. “If you do well, I’m going to buy you a dog.”
Now we’re playing for keeps! “Let’s do this one for the doggy,” Simon says with a grin.
YouTube
The moment Jeffrey starts to sing, and it’s clear that Simon should start the search for the perfect pooch right away. This kid has got talent to spare, and he hits every note of the difficult song with ease and grace.
YouTube
The song’s soaring refrain can give just about anyone goosebumps, and Jeffrey manages to do it all without straining. His voice is as clear as glass, and he truly does the song justice with his version. Jeffrey did so well, in fact, that singer Josh Groban even sent him kudos on Twitter:
Way to go, Jeffrey!! I’m honored! https://t.co/xpzCJeT7pF
— josh groban (@joshgroban) June 20, 2018
When Jeffrey finished, the entire audience was on their feet, cheering him on. All of the judges were enthusiastic about Jeffrey’s talent, and his chances on the show. Howie Mandel even called him “a young, male Celine Dion,” which is pretty much the highest compliment a Canadian singer can get!
YouTube
As for that promise Simon made, it sounds like he’s ready and willing to make it happen. “Jeffrey, I think this was an amazing audition, so I’m gonna keep my promise,” Simon said. “Not only have you got four yeses, you’ve got yourself a new dog.â€
Best audition ever!
Watch Jeffrey slay with his performance of “You Raise Me Up,” below, and don’t forget to share.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.