It’s hard to believe now, but Charles Higgins II — a confident ninth grader today — was once a shy third grader who could barely face a crowd. Back in 2018, he nervously took part in a school talent show, performing Maroon 5’s “Sugar.” Even then, there was a spark in his voice — small, unsure, but filled with heart.
Fast forward to 2022, and that spark had turned into something truly extraordinary. During a group performance of “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman, Charles shocked his mom and everyone in the audience by stepping forward for a surprise solo.
At first, his voice trembled — you could feel the nerves — but then came a moment that no one saw coming. Charles found his confidence mid-song, and suddenly the shy boy transformed before everyone’s eyes. His pure, angelic tone filled the room as he sang:
“When the sharpest words wanna cut me down,
I’m gonna send a flood, gonna drown ’em out.
This is brave, this is bruised,
This is who I’m meant to be — this is me.”
Despite the less-than-perfect audio, his emotional delivery shone through. The sincerity in his voice carried the same strength as the lyrics themselves — a young boy declaring his identity to the world with unshakable honesty.
When the video first surfaced online, Charles was just 13 years old. Now, a couple of years later, his proud mother has shared new footage — and what a difference time makes. His voice has matured, deeper and richer, but no less full of passion. In his latest performance, he tackles REO Speedwagon’s “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” and once again, his growth is undeniable.
He still starts off shyly, like that same little boy we met years ago. But as the music builds, something shifts — his confidence blooms, his tone strengthens, and he completely owns the stage.
It’s clear that Charles has something special — a natural gift and a story that resonates with anyone who’s ever struggled to find their voice.
He’s just 15 now, but if he keeps singing like this, don’t be surprised if we see him one day on The Voice or America’s Got Talent.
Watch his inspiring journey unfold — from a timid child to a young man whose voice can move hearts.