When you’re auditioning for a talent show, your song choice can either make or break your opportunity to impress the judges. That’s why you have to be extra picky with your piece and make sure that it suits your vocal skills.
James Smith didn’t have any problem impressing the judges, particularly Simon Cowell. Performing a really surprising song for his age, he definitely made a mark on his audition day.
James wore a blue sweatshirt and jeans. Carrying his guitar on stage, you can see how confident he was. The teen was even making jokes on stage, sharing how his father, a soap salesman, keeps the entire family “clean”.
But jokes aside, James was there for his parents. His main aim wasn’t to win Britain’s Got Talent or sing in front of the Queen. He just wanted to make his parents proud of him. A true family-oriented guy, he even spent his 15th birthday with his nan at home, eating cake.
Although James thinks that his voice sounds a bit goofy, he was actually able to stun everyone with his rendition of Nina Simone’s Feeling Good. His performance was soulful and his guitar skills were quite impressive, encouraging everyone to give him a standing ovation,
“I was nervous when I heard you were singing ‘Feeling Good. But you gave it a completely new twist – this is one of my favorite auditions so far.”- Simon said after the performance.
Feeling Good was a sing Nina Simone recorded for her 1965 album. It’s a hit that’s also been covered by other popular names in the music industry, such as George Michael, Muse, Michael Bublé, Traffic, and EDEN.
James was obviously happy to hear all the nice things the judges had to say about him and his performance. Even his mom and dad were all smiles after the teen received his 4 yeses.
This sent him to the semi-finals where he performed Gnarls Barkley’s Crazy. He was able to win the public vote and that pushed him to the finals. There, he performed Try a Little Tenderness.
Despite his talent and amazing charisma, however, James failed to win the 8th season of Britain’s Got Talent. He was only able to finish at the 6th spot.
After the competition, James continued to pursue his passion for music. He was able to release Little Love, his first EP. He was able to sign a record deal while studying in West London for college, too.
He gained a lot more confidence in his skills and ability. Comparing with how he looked at his audition when he was just 15 years old, he’s a lot more serious now about what he wants to do in life. He has worked really hard polishing his skills and learning different moods and genres.
Dreaming of having really successful albums, his own studio, and being able to work with some of his musical inspirations, the music industry is indeed James’ big dreamland. With his talent and dedication to music, his parents are surely more than proud of James.
Be sure to scroll down to watch James’ entire performance!
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