Ever heard of the saying “don’t judge a book by its cover?” Well, it would be naive to think that first impressions don’t matter. For instance, employers usually go for the most presentable looking applicant first. The same can be said for anyone who goes shopping. The first thing that catches your eye is the most vibrant, glittery item you see in the store, right?
But when it comes to talent shows, first impressions don’t always count. Take Susan Boyle for example. During her X Factor audition, The British singer was unfairly judged for her looks. The audience found it difficult to see a global superstar in this unassuming, middle-aged woman. But lo and behold, Susan proved her naysayers wrong by winning the show and building a successful singing career.
The young girl you are about to see parallels Susan Boyle a lot in that initially she is shy and reserved. But Courtney Hadwin won over the America’s Got Talent judges thanks to her larger than life performance. Though Courtney didn’t win her season, she’s returned to the same stage for another shot at gold.
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Courtney Hadwin’s first audition on America’s Got Talent had a LOT of people talking. The young girl was just fourteen years old when first appeared on the show. She was exceptionally shy hiding behind her long brown hair. To make matters even more daunting, Courtney had to perform a song in front of the notorious Simon Cowell.
The judges weren’t so sure what to make of the teen at first. But their doubts were quickly shot down went it came time for Courtney to sing. She belted out Otis Redding’s “Hard to Handle” and showcased a voice that was reminiscent of the legendary Janis Joplin. It was truly one of the most rememberable on the history of America’s Got Talent.
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Unfortunately, talent alone wasn’t enough to carry Courtney to victory. She finished in sixth place that season despite being a crowd favorite.
But Courtney wasn’t ready to give up on her dream just yet. She had her second shot at redemption when the show invited all former contestants for America’s Got Talent: Champions. This time, Courtney upped the ante by choosing an original song, “Pretty Little Thing,” instead of a cover. Will she be able to pull it off?
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Dressed in a purple number, Courtney once again proved that she was a force to be reckoned with. She danced around the stage with the finesse of a seasoned pro. At one point, she even heads down to the judges to give them high fives.