Deaf Artist Mandy Harvey Earns Golden Buzzer on ‘America’s Got Talent’
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Mandy Harvey is a former contestant in the 12th season of America’s Got Talent, where she performed original songs during the competition. She lost her residual hearing at age 18 due to a connective tissue disorder that affected her nerves.
Mandy Harvey Earns Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer on ‘America’s Got Talent’
Harvey auditioned for America’s Got Talent with her original song “Try” while playing the ukulele. Simon Cowell was clearly moved by the performance.
“Mandy, I don’t think you are going to need a translator for this,†and so saying, he hit the Golden Buzzer to send her straight to the Quarterfinals.
“That was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen and heard. Honestly I never think I’m gonna be surprised or amazed by people and then you turn up and with I would just the fact that you are you but it was your voice your tone your song was beautiful,†said Cowell.
Harvey Lost her Hearing at Age 18, Persevered
Harvey was born in Cincinnati, Ohio before moving to St. Cloud, Fla. Growing up, she loved music and singing. She majored in vocal music education at Colorado State University until she lost her sense of hearing due to a connective tissues disorder Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. As a result, she dropped out of school, quit singing, and fell into depression.
Refusing to quit her dream, she returned to her music with the aid of “visual tuners.” She also learned how to find the correct pitches when singing.
“I want to do more with my life than just give up,†she said.
Harvey continues to perform around the United States and has been featured on NBC Nights News, Canada AM, ‘The Steve Harvey Show,’ and the Los Angeles Times. She has released three albums so far.
She is also the ambassador to both No Barriers USA and Invisible Disabilities Association with a mission to encourage, inspire, and assist others to break through their personal barriers.
