Herbie Russ is one of those America’s Got Talent contestants that you’ll never forget. At 54-years-old, he entered the competition after finally rising above a life of hardships and homelessness.
While Herbie’s backstory touched a lot of people’s hearts – it was when he opened his mouth to sing a classic Joe Cocker song that everyone was left awestruck. By no surprise, his audition went viral and has now been watched millions of times.
Meet Herbie Russ.
At this point in Herbie’s life, he’s considered a kind-hearted, funny guy who enjoys helping others in need. He’s also an accomplished musician who can play the saxophone and keyboard – on top of having a distinguished voice that’s led him to work with companies like Ford, AT&T, and General Motors.
Yet, it’s been a difficult road for Herbie, to say the least.
It seemed like he had a bright future ahead.
Herbie, who’s from Michigan, first started playing the saxophone when he was in 6th grade. He excelled so much that it earned him a scholarship to go to an art school.
But sadly all that came crashing down after Herbie suffered a hand injury and he could no longer play his instrument. Eventually, his grades plummeted and he dropped out.
Herbie’s lifestyle choices led him down a path of self-destruction.
According to the musician’s website, he began using drugs, which is what caused him to be kicked out of his home as a teen. He spent years living out of his car, on people’s couches, on in hotel rooms – playing music gigs to survive and pay for his habits.
Then came a turning point. On his site it explains:
“After years of drifting . . . he eventually turned to God and said “You’ve given me this talent, I need some direction.”
Herbie found his purpose in a homeless shelter.
Initially, he went to a homeless facility wanting to play music for the people there. But once Herbie saw the conditions and learned of the residents’ hardships he decided he wanted to do more. He began donating the money he’d earn from gigs in order to help out the shelter, which over time turned into a substantial amount.
Since then he’s continued to help out those less fortunate and is humbled by his experiences.
AGT was a huge opportunity for Herbie to show off his talents.
When Herbie walked out on stage he had long straggly hair and was carrying his saxophone. He informed everyone that he’d be performing Joe Cocker’s “With a Little Help from My Friends.” The moment Herbie allowed his soulful voice to emerge, it became clear how talented he really is.
Not only did his singing blow everyone away, but his saxophone playing did too. In the end, his audition earned a standing ovation from the crowd.
The judges expressed their amazement to Herbie.
Mel B said:
“You just sing with so much passion and soul, oh my gosh, you just got it.”
Although Simon didn’t agree with Herbie’s song choice, he also told the contestant, “Your voice is unbelievable.” By no surprise, Herbie was given all “yeses” from the panel of judges.
Once his audition made it to the internet people were stunned by what they heard. Herbie’s truly an inspiration, both for what he’s overcome and also for his musical talents.
See for yourself how incredible of a singer Herbie is by watching his performance below!
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