15-year-old Amanda Mena channels Aretha Franklin, earning a Golden Buzzer on ‘America’s Got Talent.’
Judge Mel B gave the teen a Golden Buzzer after her powerful performance of ‘Natural Woman.’
Like many other kids her age, Amanda Mena faced bullying growing up. The 15-year-old moved to the United States from the Dominican Republic when she was four years old, and the transition wasn’t always easy.
“When I came here, I didn’t know a word of English,” she told the judges on Tuesday’s episode of AGT. “I got bullied a lot, so all that kind of gave me tough skin.” Amanda credited music and her mother for getting her through that period of her life.
The young teen got the chance to silence her bullies on national television when she sang Aretha Franklin’s “Natural Woman” and completely stole the show. By the end of her passionate rendition of the classic song, the entire audience was on their feet. Even more importantly, all of the judges loved her performance as well.
“Do you know what you have, Amanda?” Simon asked. “You have genuine natural soul. This is an audition we’re going to remember for a long time.”
He was right—judge Mel B was so blown away, she admitted to having goosebumps. Then, she did the one thing every contestant hopes for.
“I love you, I love your voice…and this is what I’m going to say to all those bullies,” Mel said as she slammed down her Golden Buzzer.
The signature gold confetti rained down on the stage as the crowd erupted in cheers and Amanda’s mom ran onto the stage to celebrate with her.
