America’s Got Talent Audition: Jimmie Herrod, Sofia Vergara’s Golden Buzzer, Makes Simon Like His Least Favorite Song
Jimmie Herrod, 30, from Portland, Oregon wowed the judges on America’s Got Talent Tuesday night with a rendition of “Tomorrow” from the Broadway musical, Annie. It was the night of star-studded 30-year-old singers as Jimmie joined Brooke Simpson (Watch her audition HERE) as a standout on Night 4 of Season 16 auditions. (Check out our recap HERE)
Simon learns to love “Tomorrow”
Judge Simon Cowell didn’t seem too pleased when Jimmie revealed his song choice, calling “Tomorrow” his “worst song in the world.” So, the pressure was on for Jimmie when he claimed that he didn’t have another song prepared. This seemed like a total TV moment for the singer, a member of the Pink Martini band, not to have another song prepared. Fans know that contestants often prepare multiple songs. The producers probably knew Simon didn’t like the song, so they advised him to stick with it.
Jimmie classical, angelic vocals are delivered with impressive technique. Most impressive are his range and agility on the held out notes. As Jimmie sang, host Terry Crews exclaimed, “what a voice!” Although I was a fan of many of Jimmie’s covers on his social media pages, the song choice for AGT was too theatrical. His voice IS theatrical, but the arrangement boasted too many bells and whistles for my tastes. It reminded me a bit of John Holliday who is an incredible vocalist from The Voice, a couple of seasons ago. But at times his voice sounded too harsh on the ears. Overall, however, Jimmie has an amazing voice.
Sofia Vergara chooses Jimmie as her Golden Buzzer
The singer did receive a standing ovation from the panel. Simon said, “Wow. Wow. Wow. It’s not my worst song anymore.” Sofia Vergara said that she didn’t like it that much before hitting the golden buzzer and exclaiming, “I loved it!” Sofia felt like she had to hit the golden buzzer for Jimmie. These golden buzzers are becoming quite predictable as the fake outs aren’t as good as the judges seem to think they are.
A solid night of America’s Got Talent auditions
Jimmie joined a solid night of America’s Got Talent auditions that included some of my favorites, including fellow standout singer and The Voice alum, Brooke Simpson and hair suspension aerialist, Danila Bim. All three acts deserve to go far. I also must respect the difficulty of contortionist Roman Kricheli’s act. Additionally, kid magician, Shoji, has great showmanship and is a solid magician for his age. Notably, Josh Blue, winner of Last Comic Standing in 2006, has already done a few comedy specials. It’s interesting that the show allowed him to compete.
