America’s Got Talent 2025: Simon Cowell Awards Last Golden Buzzer to Birmingham Youth Choir
After a week off, America’s Got Talent Season 20 returned for a 6th week of auditions on Tuesday, July 8th. The night was a bit of a mixed bag when it came to the talent, but one act, the Birmingham Youth Choir, stole the show with a show stopping performance that led to them being the recipient of Simon Cowell’s second golden buzzer of the season.
The Birmingham, Alabama choir has been together for 10 years. Ahkeem Lee, their director introduced himself and the act to the judges. He started the choir at the age of 18 to perform for a school supply fundraising concert. But afterward, there was such a demand for the choir, it kept going.
Akheem stated that the group comes from a city that often comes “last on a list.” He continues by telling his story of growing up at the 16th street Baptist church where a tragic bombing occurred and took the lives of four young girls in 1963. He said, “While that bombing was such a tragic situation, it played such an instrumental role in bringing in international attention to the civil rights struggle.” They want to showcase the talents of Birmingham through this choir.
The group sang, “Joyful, Joyful.” The first soloist employed a pleasant tone, followed by another singer who joined to harmonize. Eventually, the entire group lent their voices. The group was extremely in sync and possessed great power. The song ended with a slew of riffs and runs. The performance was busy, but the end result was satisfying.
“I’m so honored you would come here on our 20th anniversary”
Simon said, “I could see and hear how much work went into this,” adding that everyone “played the perfect part.” Before allowing his fellow judges to speak, he cut right to the chase, “I’m so honored you would come here on our 20th anniversary, and in return I want to give you something.” He then hit the golden buzzer. The group celebrated as Simon joined them on stage.
The other act of the night that showed a lot of potential was Gendai, a light dancing act that Mel B didn’t “get” who showcased a cool laser dancing act. The week 7 teaser featured former American Idol standout and AGT alum, Jessica Sanchez. I am hoping her return to TV means a strong episode.
