On January 6, 2020, during America’s Got Talent: The Champions, 14-year-old Norwegian singer Angelina Jordan delivered a performance that captivated audiences worldwide. Already known for winning Norway’s Got Talent at just eight years old, Angelina was no stranger to the stage, but her appearance on this global platform brought her unique voice and artistry to an even broader audience.
For her performance, Angelina chose the iconic and complex Queen anthem Bohemian Rhapsody—an ambitious choice for any artist, let alone a teenager. But instead of replicating the original rock arrangement, she transformed the song entirely. With a jazz-inspired, soulful interpretation, she made it her own, adding emotional layers that were both intimate and haunting. Her voice, rich with emotion and maturity well beyond her years, drew listeners in and held them spellbound.
What set Angelina’s rendition apart was not just her vocal talent, but the way she infused each note with feeling. There was a delicate vulnerability in her performance that made it deeply moving. Her interpretation brought a fresh perspective to a well-known classic, reimagining it not just as a song, but as an emotional journey.
The judges were clearly impressed, with Simon Cowell especially praising her for her originality and depth. He noted that very few young performers possess the kind of artistic insight Angelina displayed. In a field filled with extraordinary talent, she stood out for her ability to reframe a rock anthem as a poignant ballad, highlighting her exceptional musical intuition.
Though the season’s winner was ventriloquist Darci Lynne, Angelina Jordan’s performance remains one of the most memorable moments of the series. Her ability to connect emotionally with both the material and the audience proved that she is not only an outstanding vocalist but a true artist capable of transcending genres with authenticity and grace.