On May 27, America’s Got Talent kicked off its 20th season with its typical mix of energetic performances bursting at the seams with talent. However, one audition by 23-year-old street performer Jourdan Blue quickly became one of the biggest standouts in AGT history, and not just for his talent.
A Performance Steeped in Pain
Blue’s performance of The Script’s “Breakeven (Falling to Pieces)” was undoubtedly the greatest standout of the night. Beyond Blue’s vocal ability, the emotion he delivered behind every line brought many to tears. Through the song, you heard every painful moment of Jourdan’s story from being kicked out at 16, being homeless, raising a young child, and surviving the terrorist attack on January 1st in New Orleans as he sang. Blue’s pain and resilience were felt by the audiences and judges alike, encouraging Howie Mandel to hit his much-sought-after Golden Buzzer, telling Blue, “I believe you’re a star. “
Watch Jourdan’s emotional audition here.
Photo: Trae Patton/NBC
All in all, Jourdan’s story reflects the struggles of many young people in America who face early challenges and have to navigate this world by themselves. His story of couch-surfing, sleeping in the restrooms of his jobs, and being saved by his loving grandpa is one of the reasons why so many people love AGT, seeing the humanity behind the talent, showing that talent can come from anyone and anywhere.