When Courtney Hadwin, a thirteen-year-old vocalist, auditioned for America’s Got Talent in 2019, the four judges—Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Mel B, and Heidi Klum—clearly did not have high expectations for her. Mel B tried to calm the youngster by saying, “Don’t be nervous,” after she admitted to feeling anxious. There are a lot of people here, and I understand this is a big stage. Good luck, and remember that you are not here by chance.

It turns out Courtney was entirely self-sufficient. Jurors were astounded by the little girl’s extraordinary voice, which had previously seemed timid and uncertain. Their eyes fell as she began singing Otis Redding’s “Too Hot to Handle” in her own fiery and passionate performance. She also delivered an immensely confident performance, dancing frantically about the stage as if it were second nature.

However, Courtney was about to receive the cherry on top of her accomplishment. Judge Howie Mandel was so taken with her voice that he pressed his golden buzzer, advancing her to the quarterfinals of America’s Got Talent. Simon Cowell, apparently taken aback, told her, “You were this shy little thing when you came out, and then you sing, and you’re like a lion.” He also exclaimed, “Oh my God, you are not from this era,” as if taken aback, “you are from a completely different era.”

Unfortunately, Courtney did not win the ultimate prize on America’s Got Talent, finishing tenth. But she did give a plethora of other jaw-droppingly fantastic performances throughout the competition, including a rousing rendition of Tina Turner’s “Nutbush City Limits” in the final. After viewing her, Howie said, “You are on fire; you’re amazing; you’re a superstar.” The final sentence was probably the best way to describe the young woman’s exceptional singing ability and attractive charm.