Watching musically gifted children never gets old. Whether you credit it to being born under a lucky star, or a simple case of good genetics, it does at least feel like something of a miracle.
That was certainly the feeling evoked when shy 9-year-old Journeyy Belton stepped onto the stage for “America’s Got Talent” on July 23, 2024, and blew audiences away with his powerful original song “Paradise.”
Showing off not just an incredibly soulful voice that belied his age, Journeyy also shared his exceptional songwriting skills as he brought to life an imaginary dream world filled with “purple clouds” and “automatic lullabies.”
Listen below and tell me this kid doesn’t remind you of Sia:
The incredible performance wowed the judges, the live audience and online viewers alike, many of whom hailed the kid a young “musical genius.”
“I have never felt so unskilled,” one person joked. “This child has so much talent! I can’t wait to see them grow their music.”
Another praised, “His ability to hear and create melodies, the sophisticated lyric writing, the piano skills, and his incredible voice tell me he will 100% be a star selling out stadiums!”
A fun surprise—Simon Cowell revealed moments before Journeyy’s audition that he had heard him perform before on TikTok only a few days ago. His account is full of amazing covers, like Oceans by Hillsong United, which has racked up tons of views and glowing praise.
“Things are gonna happen for you. I can feel it,” Cowell told Journeyy. “You are somebody who has a God-given talent. And it’s rare.”
That certainly seems to be the case, no matter how the competition goes. Whatever happens, Journeyy, you’ve got loyal fans rooting for you!
This article originally appeared last year.
