When 13-year-old Courtney Hadwin stepped onto the stage of America’s Got Talent in 2019, the judges—Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Mel B, and Heidi Klum—weren’t expecting much. The shy teenager appeared nervous as she admitted her jitters to the panel. Mel B offered her a few encouraging words: “Don’t be nervous. I know this is a big stage with lots of people here, but you’re here for a reason. Go for it, and good luck.”
But as it turned out, Courtney didn’t need luck. The moment she began singing her fiery rendition of Otis Redding’s Too Hot to Handle, the entire room was stunned. Her powerhouse voice and electrifying stage presence were completely unexpected from the timid girl who had just walked on stage. She moved with a confidence that belied her age, dancing with an energy that had the crowd roaring in approval.
Courtney Hadwin’s Golden Buzzer Moment
By the end of her jaw-dropping performance, the judges were visibly in awe. Howie Mandel couldn’t contain his excitement and hit the coveted golden buzzer, sending Courtney straight to the quarter-finals. “Oh my gosh,” Howie exclaimed, “you’re not from this era—you’re from another time!” Simon Cowell echoed the sentiment, marveling, “You came out as this shy little thing, and then you sing like a lion.”
Although Courtney didn’t win the competition, she secured her place in the top ten and delivered several show-stopping performances along the way. Her final performance—a high-energy rendition of Tina Turner’s Nutbush City Limits—was a standout moment. “You’re on fire!” Howie declared. “You’re amazing, you’re a superstar.” It was a sentiment echoed by fans and judges alike, perfectly capturing the essence of her raw talent and magnetic stage presence.
A Rising Star’s Journey Beyond America’s Got Talent
Even from her audition, it was clear that Courtney Hadwin was destined for the stage. Her distinctive voice, unrestrained dancing, and undeniable charisma set her apart as a true performer. Since her time on America’s Got Talent, Courtney has continued to build an impressive career. With five original singles to her name, a highly anticipated debut album in the works, and an upcoming American tour, she is firmly on the path to stardom.
Courtney’s journey is far from over, and her fans can’t wait to see what she’ll achieve next. For those eager to keep up with her latest news and performances, Courtney’s YouTube channel and Facebook page are the perfect places to follow this remarkable young artist as she continues to inspire and amaze.