Kylie Frey: The Rodeo Queen Who Won Over Simon Cowell with a Heartfelt Tribute
The America’s Got Talent stage has seen many country singers, but few bring the authentic “rodeo spirit” quite like Kylie Frey. A 28-year-old from Opelousas, Louisiana, Kylie grew up in a world of dust and determination, even serving as a rodeo queen. On a stage far removed from the dirt arenas of her youth, she delivered a performance that proved she is far more than just a traditional country act—she is a storyteller with a soul-stirring voice.
Kylie’s journey to AGT was fueled by a promise to her grandfather, who told her that singing the National Anthem at rodeos would be her ticket to the big leagues, much like it was for country legend Reba McEntire. For her audition, she performed an original song dedicated to him, titled “Riding Horses in Heaven.” The lyrics painted a vivid picture of lessons learned on a buckskin mare and the pain of losing a mentor, delivered with a vocal grit that was both vulnerable and powerful. Backed by a tight, professional band, Kylie’s performance felt less like an audition and more like a headline concert.
While the judges were divided, with Howie Mandel feeling unmoved, the rest of the panel was captivated. Simon Cowell, whom Kylie used to impersonate at birthday parties as a child, was visibly impressed, calling her the “real deal” and praising her songwriting ability. Despite the mixed feedback from Howie, the strength of her original material and her undeniable stage presence earned her the “yeses” she needed to move forward. Kylie Frey didn’t just sing a song; she brought a piece of her Louisiana heritage to the world stage.
