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It’s no easy feat to bring Simon Cowell to tears, yet 13-year-old Malakai Bayoh managed just that.
In the recent episode of “Britain’s Got Talent” on April 16, this London teenager shared his dream of becoming a singer, tracing his journey back to the age of 7 when his mother, in her own words, “bossily” nudged him into joining the choir.
Bayoh then delivered an angelic rendition of “Pie Jesu” during his audition, instantly capturing Cowell’s attention and even causing Bruno Tonioli to watch with wide-eyed wonder.
The audience, equally spellbound, erupted in applause, including Bayoh’s proud mom and sister among them.
Throughout the performance, the camera caught glimpses of Cowell, smiling through teary eyes. (For those unfamiliar with “America’s Got Talent” or “Britain’s Got Talent,” Cowell’s approval is notoriously hard-won.)
As Bayoh wrapped up his song, he received a standing ovation from all four judges and the audience. Cowell even winked at the beaming teenager, who was basking in the moment on stage.
“If there’s one word I could use to describe that… golden,” Cowell remarked, before hitting the show’s coveted “Golden Buzzer,” a gesture reserved for talents of exceptional caliber, propelling them straight to the finals.
Golden confetti showered Bayoh, so much so that he even made snow angels on the floor, with Cowell quickly joining him on stage to celebrate.
“Come here,” Cowell beckoned, embracing Bayoh. “How amazing was that? Seriously, seriously good. One of the best voices I think I’ve ever heard for someone your age. I mean, this is amazing.”
Both grabbed handfuls of golden confetti before Cowell returned to his seat, while Bayoh tucked a few pieces into his pants pocket.
“I was in tears because you really touched me,” Tonioli confessed. “And it’s very simple, you sang like an angel.”
“Thank you, thank you, thank you for coming on this show,” Cowell expressed sincerely. “Really, it means a lot.”
Later, Cowell reflected that Bayoh’s performance “defines what a golden buzzer is all about.”