Thirty-four-year-old BJ Griffin from Virginia Beach, Virginia walked onto the America’s Got Talent stage carrying something the judges rarely see in a singing audition: an electric cello. Before performing, BJ opened up about a life-changing decision he made years earlier—walking away from football, despite his parents’ expectations, to follow his true passion: music. Now he was ready to stop “holding himself back” and finally share his gift of “healing through music” with the world.
The judges and audience were instantly intrigued.
When BJ began his soulful rendition of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together,” the room was electrified. His warm, powerful vocals blended seamlessly with the deep, velvety tones of the electric cello. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a fusion of genres, a bold mix of classical meets R&B, and BJ commanded the entire stage with effortless charisma. Every movement, every note, every gesture radiated confidence and artistry.
The judges were blown away.
Howie Mandel called BJ his absolute favorite singer of the season, praising his radiant energy and unique presence. Simon Cowell, visibly impressed, said, “That’s what you call a moment,” describing BJ’s voice as “stunning” and unmistakably original. The other judges echoed the praise, agreeing his audition was powerful, memorable, and refreshingly different.
With a performance that blended soul, passion, and classical innovation, BJ Griffin earned four enthusiastic yeses, securing his place in the next round—and leaving the AGT audience buzzing about his one-of-a-kind talent.