America’s Got Talent: Dance group The Funkateers earn Terry Crews first Golden Buzzer
America’s Got Talent season 20 continued Tuesday night (June 17) with a fourth night of auditions. And the Golden Buzzers just keep coming as each judge and Terry Crews can give out two each. Terry got the opportunity to hand out his first golden buzzer in this episode with the opening act of the night, The Funkateers.
A dance group that formed in 1980, performed at various venues, but then put their dancing on hold as they became fathers and held jobs. One of the Funkateers stated that “we’ve always believed that we were before our time.” They explained to the judges that they initially formed the group in order to win their high school talent show, a goal that they accomplished. But they haven’t performed together since 1989, at one of the members’ weddings.
The group has some serious moves which is evident from the start of their funky routine to Rick James’ “Give It to Me Baby.” Skilled dancers who are super in sync, the routine isn’t overly ambitious. But each dancer is able to show off why they belong in the group, and they are a blast to watch. Afterward, the judges and crowd all stand.
“It shows that age ain’t nothing but a number”
Simon Cowell repeatedly exclaimed “yes” with excitement for the act. Sofia Vergara called the act “perfect” and added that they have a “beautiful story.” Howie Mandel stated that “it’s better that you did it now at this age” pointing out how impressive their moves really are for their age. Then, Terry interrupted Simon to say, “listen, you are my golden buzzer” and rushed to the judges table to push the buzzer. Simon complained, “that was supposed to be mine” claiming he would’ve pushed it. He described the perfect audition as “something that is surprising and it makes you feel amazing.” Terry said, “It shows that age ain’t nothing but a number.” The group celebrated with both Terry and Simon on stage.
The Funkateers weren’t the only act that wowed on this audition night. Hand balancer and acrobatic acts always wow me, and Duo Soma was another one of those acts. It shocked me that Mel B. gave them a no. Jonglissimo was an intriguing act that mixed juggling and a light show. Finally, Steve Ray Ladson’s original song wasn’t my favorite, but he has some serious soul, and I look forward to seeing more of him.
