Joseph Allen, a 21-year-old college student and motocross enthusiast, didn’t appear to be a superstar when he took the stage at America’s Got Talent. Instead, he was a laid-back, cheerful man with a guitar and a lofty goal. He expressed his desire to “leave a footprint on the world” to the judges, saying that this audition was his opportunity to discover the true potential of his song.
Joseph took a big risk by performing an original song he created about the judges, the audience, and his journey rather than reproducing a well-known tune. Everyone was clapping along from the first line thanks to his blend of feel-good rap and sweet singing. His confidence lighted up the entire room, the music was instantly infectious, and the words were smart and encouraging. You could see Julianne Hough dancing in her seat, Simon Cowell smiling, and the audience becoming louder with each chorus.
The theater erupted in applause and a standing ovation as he concluded. Then, as gold confetti poured down, Howie Mandel did something that nobody had anticipated: he stepped up on the judges’ desk and stomped on the Golden Buzzer, putting Joseph right through. In jubilation, host Terry Crews even lifted him up and carried him across the stage. Joseph entered with the intention of making an impression and left with one of the most memorable Golden Buzzer moments in AGT history.
