When Luke Islam introduced himself as a hardcore Broadway fan who’s seen Wicked, The Lion King, The Color Purple, Kinky Boots (eight times), and more, he was clearly one of the cutest kids the America’s Got Talent judges have seen. Little did they know, he had a spectacular voice, as seen in his audition video uploaded on Tuesday (July 9).
The 12-year-old singer came prepared with a rendition of Sara Bareilles‘ “She Used To Be Mine” from Waitress. Right away, his spine-tingling vibrato and powerful high notes had the crowd cheering and standing in awe.
“We are watching the beginning of your dream come true,” Howie Mandel started. Simon Cowell, who was also impressed, told Islam that he needs to make a good impression and treat every performance as if he’s auditioning for the best producers on Broadway.
He then received the golden buzzer, which will send him straight to the finals. On top of everything, the move was was made by Islam’s biggest inspiration, Julianne Hough.
After buzzing, Hough gave the young singer some words of wisdom. “I’m extremely flattered that you would even look up to my brother and I with a voice like that,” Hough gushed as Islam teared up. “You have such talent and grace and you have something so special. You have an essence inside of you that has given you a gift. I believe that not only are you going to become a star and get your dream to come true, but I don’t think you need to wait that much longer.”
Watch the full heart-warming clip below.