Brazilian singer Gabriel Henrique stunned judges when he took the America's Got Talent stage on Tuesday night (Aug. 1), and he left the audition with an enthusiastic 'YES' — especially from Sofia Vergara. The 27-year-old took his very first trip to the U.S. for the audition, and upon introducing himself to the judges, he explained that he speaks little English. He brought a translator to the stage with him in order to converse with the judges.
After a brief conversation with the judges, Henrique got set for the performance. The judges noted that he looked nervous, but his nerves didn't derail him, and he launched into a rendition of Whitney Houston's "Run to You." The judges looked pleased from Henrique's very first note, and as he continued singing, he showcased his unique, crystal clear voice.
His impressive vocal range became clear during the performance as he belted high notes throughout the song. Toward the end of the performance, Henrique took the song to the next level by debuting incredibly high whistle notes, which brought the crowd and all four judges to their feet.
Judge Heidi Klum was the first to comment on Henrique's performance, saying, "If Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey had a baby, it would be Gabriel."
Howie Mandel said he "didn't expect" to hear such a voice from Gabriel, adding that he sounds like " the best and finest pop diva there ever was."
Judge Simon Cowell also shared a glowing review.
"People are going to really like you. You're just so interesting," he said. "I can tell that you've sang in church and you don't know how good you are. It was amazing."
When it came time for Vergara to give her comments, she looked visibly touched by the performance.
"I don't have words, that was so perfect, spectacular," she said. "Your voice is beautiful. Your energy, who you are. It was perfect."
The actress also shared that Henrique gave her a "feeling" she's been waiting for on the show: "Something very beautiful and very heartfelt."
After a moment of suspense, Vergara then pushed the coveted golden buzzer, which automatically sends Henrique through to the live shows. Immediately after she pushed the button, the stage lit up in gold lights and golden confetti rained down onto Henrique. The singer was ecstatic during the moment, and Vergara even came to the stage to celebrate with Henrique and share a few words with him.
