When Gabrielle Union joined the 14th season of America’s Got Talent as the show’s newest judge, we knew she has the opportunity to change someone’s life just by pushing the famous golden buzzer. However, nobody expected the kind of act that would ever compel her to do so or that it was going to be on the very first episode of the show!
With his mother by his side, 22-year-old Kodi Lee walked center stage to one of the biggest talent competitions in the world. People from the audience could easily figure out that Kodi was special and this was confirmed when his mom, Tina, mentioned about his autism and congenital blindness.
When Gabrielle asked what his act was going to be, he happily told everyone that he was going to sing a song for them on the piano. Tina Lee also shared that Kodi learned to sing at a young age and that music is the reason that kept him alive and happy, despite his condition. She realized that her son was an entertainer and from then on, she definitely supported him in his passion.
Finally, it was time for Kodi to start his audition. He went to sit by the piano while his mother was crouched by his side, telling him motivating words and giving him a final boost of morale before his performance. The silence that was in the air while Kodi was preparing to start was quite deafening and you could totally feel that everyone was holding their breath, quietly anticipating what this young man is about to do.
When he played the introduction of Leon Russell’s “A Song For You” and sung the song’s first few words, everyone in the room just went wild with astonishment. Kodi Lee is such a talented singer! His voice has a beautiful tone that belonged to a professional. Plus, his emotions were absolutely on point as well! The judges were shocked and were totally blown away by this man’s utterly sincere and moving performance and the way his voice reaching the heart of every person who was watching and listening.
New judge Julianne Hough was in tears all throughout Kodi’s number, clearly touched by this special man’s ability to connect soulfully with his listeners. Kodi ended his song with a heartfelt finale that was met by a standing ovation and a great big applause from everyone in the theatre. Everyone just could not stop applauding him and Julianne could not stop crying!
Seasoned judge Howie Mandel was quick to tell him that everyone was up on their feet. Simon Cowell, on the other hand, praised him for his beautiful tone and the great relationship between Kodi and his mom. He even thanked him for being on the show saying,
“Thank you so much for trusting us on this show. I’m going to remember this moment for the rest of my life.”
Julianne, who was clearly trying to keep her emotions in, reassured Kodi with her words,
“I just want to say that I heard you and I felt you and that was beautiful.”
Among the great things that judges said about Kodi’s spectacular performance, Gabrielle’s would have to be the one that really made a mark. Recently becoming a mother, Gabrielle knew how a mom wants to give everything to her children.
“I’m a new judge this season and I’m also a new mom this year. It’s the toughest job I’ve ever had and the most rewarding job I’ve ever had. You just want to give your kids the moon, the stars and the rainbows. Tonight, I’m going to give you something special.”
And with that, Gabrielle reached out and pushed the golden buzzer, automatically sending Kodi to the semi-finals! It was such a historic moment as it was the first ever golden buzzer this season. Kodi’s mom, Tina, was absolutely ecstatic as well as their other family members who immediately went on stage to congratulate Kodi. The judges also joined the family in this momentous event with Gabrielle telling Kodi that he has changed the world.
What Kodi Lee did when he performed was more than just a song number that touched the hearts of his audience. More importantly, he was able to show the world that with a family who will be there to support and love you all the way, any dream is within your reach despite all the hardships you face or the disabilities you have. Kodi and his amazing achievement in America’s Got Talent will go down in history as a moment where people can see that disabilities can never limit a person’s talent and willingness to pursue their dreams.
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