There are plenty of competition shows geared towards music. Competition is always extremely high proving that talent is literally everywhere. Talent knows no boundaries. People everywhere are born with gifts that these shows allow to be shared with the world.
The X-Factor is one of these shows. It gives a platform to those who may not have one otherwise. It is watched by millions of viewers who, in turn, share their favorite acts, opening up new doors and opportunities for them.
That is exactly what happened to Dalton Harris on The X-Factor (UK).
A visibly nervous Harris came onto the stage with hopes of moving closer to making his dreams a reality and further away from his difficult past.
The young man is sweet, soft-spoken, and strong. His will to overcome is prevalent in the video that is shown before his performance, giving the viewer a peek into his life.
Harris is a 24-year old from Jamaica. He grew up with his mother and older sisters. He describes their upbringing as “dirt poor.”
“We never had electricity or running water.”
Still, he insists it isn’t a sad story. He prefers to use the word “humble” to describe his circumstances.
“It was the perfect thing for me,” he says. “I’m proud of it.”
Harris flew all the way from home to the UK to chase his dream. He’s waited seven years for the opportunity to perform on the show.
“This, I can say, single-handedly the biggest moment– most important moment of my life.”
The judges ask what song Harris will be performing and when he reveals the title, the judges and audience are taken aback, concerned even.
“I’m gonna be singing, ‘Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word’.”
When Simon asks why that song in particular, Harris doesn’t hesitate:
“If a lot of people that I’ve come across said sorry, a lot of people could be left with a lot less pain.”
The audience applauds in support and the judges nod in agreement.
He’s given the green light to start but before he begins, Simon says to Louis Tomlinson, “He’s really nervous.”
Harris starts with his head down as the piano opens the song. But when the first notes come from his mouth, the audience reacts. Simon looks up, noticeably intrigued.
He has a genuinely soothing voice and sings the lyrics with such authenticity, as if he’s lived every moment of the song himself.
His runs are beautiful and strong. The judges watch intensely, but all seem pleasantly surprised that he has such a rich tone.
The song is clearly an emotional choice for Harris. He almost breaks down in the middle of it but never loses his stride. The more he looks to be falling apart, the stronger his voice becomes.
He ends on a long and powerful note that he hits effortlessly. The audience erupts in applause and cheers, even Simon stands, giving Harris the respect he deserves.
Truly an inspiring performance.
Harris needs a moment after the song finishes. He places his hands on his knees, hiding his face. When he stands back up, his eyes are full of tears. He turns his face away from the audience. He does his best to compose himself, holding it together.
Simon asks respectfully, “I’m sorry if I’m being intrusive but can you explain why you were so emotional there?”
“I’ve been on my own since I was like 15,” Harris responds.
The audience “awww’s.”
Harris stumbles when he tries to reiterate that it isn’t a sad story. He clutches his hand repeatedly as if to grip something, trying to hold on.
“It’s been a lot.”
Ayda Field and Tomlinson approach the stage and give Harris a much-needed hug.
Simon smiles warmly from his seat.
There isn’t any fuss. Harris earns himself four yes’s to move on to the next round.
His journey doesn’t end there. Harris ended winning the entire show!
We can’t wait to see what the future holds for him!
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