America’s Got Talent 2025 Quarterfinals: Country singer Steve Ray Ladson nabs Sofia Vergara Finale Golden Buzzer
America’s Got Talent Season 20 Quarterfinals kicked off with 11 acts competing for one Golden Buzzer that sent an act automatically to the Finals. For the first week, Sofia Vergara had the honors of getting to pick the Golden Buzzer. The act that she picked, country singer Steve Ray Ladson, caught me a bit by surprise. (Read our Recap)
In his package, Steve talks about growing up on a farm in South Carolina. Every day he tended to the animals, but “music was the only thing we had.” He played with other bands, but he didn’t make it his own thing. The judges praised his original song “Back of My Truck” in his audition, and it even rose to #2 on the Country iTunes Chart. His plan is to continue to sing originals and impress.
On stage, he performed another original “Boots Like Mine,” and the opening was soulful with a country twang. The melody was catchy, but the lyrics felt somewhat cliche in terms of country songs. The chorus packed a punch, but the verses lacked a bit in comparison. He is an entertainer for sure though, and he had a blast up on stage. He possesses a solid voice. I just found his audition song to be stronger as this song wasn’t my cup of tea.
Sofia Vergara didn’t like Steve Ray Ladson, she loved him!
The judges stood for Steve. Terry Crews goes to Sofia right away, and she said, “You are a superstar, but to be honest, I didn’t like this song, I loved it” as she pushed the golden buzzer. I did not expect that reaction, especially since this week was loaded with three audition Golden Buzzers and a few other acts that stood out more than Steve. However, Steve may have had a shot to get voted through regardless since America loves their country music.
One act that stood out on Tuesday night’s show and who will likely have a decent shot at moving on via viewer vote, were Lightwire. Their Golden Buzzer audition was ho-hum, but they stepped up this time with a colorful light act.
Another act, B Unique, did the perfect blend of contortion and dance with their spooky dance act. Although sick, Jourdan Blue gave a solid vocal on “Biblical.” I’m betting he advances after his fan favorite audition.
Also deserving of moving on is Shuler King, a funeral director who does comedy themed around his profession. He is the lone comedian remaining and offered another solid showing. On Wednesday (August 20), Terry will reveal the three top voting acts moving on to the Semifinals.
