Adorable children’s choir wins over America’s Got Talent judges

Simon Cowell is known as the tough guy on singing shows around the world, but the judge was left impressed by a group of school children who stormed the America’s Got Talent stage earlier this week.

Along with judges Mel B, Howie Mandel and Heidi Klum, Cowell was left gobsmacked when the Voices of Hope Children’s Choir belted out a beautiful rendition of ‘This is Me’ by Keala Settle. If you’ve seen Hugh Jackman’s The Greatest Showman, you’ll recall the song is a standout moment for the film.

Joined on stage with their singing teacher, no less than 70 kids appeared in front of a live audience and millions of viewers watching at home.

‘This is Voices of Hope Children’s Choir. We are a non-profit organisation and we are a children’s choir that’s open all throughout Orange County,” the singing teacher told an inquisitive Cowell.

The judge asked the group what they would do if they won the talent show, now in its 13th season, and what they would do with the $1 million prize money.

“If we win, we will put all that money back into this program so we can reach more children with music,” the teacher said. Her response was met with loud cheers from the audience.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TI__2FnLmmM

During the performance, the judges couldn’t wipe the smiles off their faces as the kids of all ages sang their little hearts out. Even host Tyra Banks could be singing clapping and singing along from the side of the stage.

At the conclusion of the performance, the audience gave the kids a standing ovation and it was time for the judges to deliver their verdict.

“Thank you guys and girls,” Cowell said.

Klum added: “Well I absolutely adore you guys. I have to say, I adore you guys. I so much more prefer children’s choirs than an adult choir. It’s so much more fun and I also have to say the solo vocals were spectacular. Well done”.

Former Spice Girl Mel B was also impressed, but said there was room for improvement.

“Oh my gosh. I loved it, I really did! Beautifully done,” she said. “I think if you get through to the next round you’ve got to up your game a little bit more, but well done you lot.”

However, Mandel’s critique drew boos from the audience.

“I thought that was very good and very beautiful and I think the message and the song and the sound of children was great,” he began. “That being said, I don’t think it was for me.”

Cowell couldn’t help but interrupt and added: “Well that’s one opinion. I’m with Heidi. I love kid’s choirs like this. Always makes me feel good. I love your choice of song”.

He said he believed the group would rehearse well and improve. Mandel voted no, but with the other three judges saying yes, it meant Voices of Hope was through to the next round.

This is the original version of the song.

What did you think of the performance? Are you a fan of acts like this? Do your grandchildren have a special talent?