America’s Got Talent has shared an early release audition from Tuesday’s new episode of Season 20, featuring Cole Swensen. The 23-year-old singer invited his mom on stage to play the cello during his performance of a Coldplay hit.
Singer Performs with Mom in AGT Early Release
Before his audition, Cole told the judges that it’s his dream to perform on big stages. He shared that his mom Judy is a big reason he’s able to pursue his dreams, explaining she “gave up her career and her dream of music” for him.
Judy joined Cole on stage to play the cello while he strummed his guitar and sang a slowed-down version of “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay. The audience cheered for Judy’s musical talent. Judges Howie Mandel and Mel B gave Cole a standing ovation for the performance.
Mel B praised Cole’s “really distinctive tone,” saying he “sailed through that song” and “made it your own.” Mandel said it was great to “see love emulated on the stage,” sharing that his “heart is just exploding.”
Meanwhile, Simon Cowell told Cole that it “would have been a really good audition on your own.” The audience started booing him, before he added, “However, with your mum, it was a great audition.” Cole earned four “yes” votes to move on in the competition. He was moved to tears by the judges’ praise for his talent.
AGT Season 20 premiered earlier this week with the first round of auditions. Two acts earned the Golden Buzzer during the show, from Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel. Who will receive the honor during the second episode?
The auditions will continue Tuesday night on NBC, starting at 8/7c. This season marks the return of Mel B to the judging table after several seasons, as she replaces longtime judge Heidi Klum. Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara are back for another season, along with host Terry Crews.
What do you think of the season so far? Were you impressed by the early release audition? Let us know in the comments below.
Words by:
Jill O'Rourke Jill O’Rourke is a contributor at Talent Recap, writing news stories and recaps for shows like ‘AGT,’ ‘The Voice,’ and ‘American Idol.’ She graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in English and Film Studies, and has been writing about pop culture since 2012, with previous bylines at Crushable and A Plus. Jill spends her free time binge-watching sitcoms and daydreaming about life as a hobbit
