It’s a dream come true for any contestant that walks onto the stage of America’s Got Talent. 65-year-old Robert Finley too was overwhelmed at the opportunity, although his story is quite different than others.
You see, Robert’s a blind veteran that spent his entire life working as a carpenter. It wasn’t until he reached his 60s that he finally had the chance to pursue his love of music.
Robert grew up on a farm in Lousiana. But instead of being able to attend school – he went to work picking cotton.
During his childhood, Robert discovered that music was the one activity that brought him no trouble. So he’d play it whenever he could.
Then at 19-years-old, Robert enlisted in the military to help fight in Vietnam. He started a family afterward going right into his carpentry career in order to support them.
Decades later Robert started noticing his eyesight was going bad. Eventually, glaucoma left him almost completely blind.
Yet, there was a rainbow to come out of the storm. The veteran once again found his passion for music.
“It made me reach inside to find myself. It’s like I’m 65 and I’m just coming alive.”
Robert was ready to show the world his amazing talent.
Everyone watched curiously as he was led onto the stage by AGT host, Terry Crews. Robert looked quite suave, wearing a black leather cowboy hat, pants, and a belt buckle that tied it all together.
He explained a little bit about himself to the judges before his performance began. However, it didn’t take long for Robert to pull on heartstrings.
“Music was a passion of mine. So I’d say I had to lose my physical sight so that I could see my true destiny.”
Now came the biggest question. How talented of an artist was Robert, really?
Singing an original song “Get It While You Can,” Robert finally was able to unleash his mighty voice. Only moments into the energized performance he had everyone going nuts.
Not only does the elderly veteran have an incredible, soulful sound – he moves to the music like he’s half his age. In no time he controlled the room.
The audience and judges couldn’t help but dance and clap along to “Get It While You Can.” Robert himself shook his hips, moved his feet – and even showed off his “lasso.”
Everyone rose from their chairs to enjoy the performance, which was more like a concert than an audition. Surely Robert could feel the liveliness in the room – especially when the crowd roared with applause at the end.
Did Robert win over the judges?
Howie Mandel was the first to offer his praises to the musician. He said,
“We can tell there’s so much passion and this is a dream. With your talent, you deserve it.”
But he wasn’t done there. Howie continued,
“This is so important for people to listen to the song and live life the way you do. You’re a great inspiration and a great talent – I love you.”
The other judges too had positive feedback for Robert. Simon expressed how maybe taking a break from music had actually been a positive thing.
“The finest wines are the ones that stay in the storage for a few years and then they become beautiful. And that’s how I feel about your voice.”
Robert’s story is one that’s lifting people’s hearts and souls. It’s a powerful performance you don’t want to miss.
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