Dani Kerr learned her fate early in Wednesday's (Aug. 30) live episode of America's Got Talent (AGT). Despite winning over all four judges the prior evening with her original song "The Truth," Kerr was the first of 11 hopefuls sent home following the tallying of fan votes.
Ultimately, stand-up comedian Ahern Belisle and Golden Buzzer-earning dance group Murmuration were the two acts sent by the voting public to the Top 10, where they'll compete against the others to clinch a spot so far: Lavender Darcangeloplus Adrian and Hurricane.
A 23-year-old native of Statesville, NC, Kerr's bio on her website credits such personal woes as being homeless during high school with inspiring her as an Americana songwriter and a soulful, rock- and country-influenced vocalist.
"It gave me a lot of strength and power, having to go through that," Kerr said. "I think that's really helped my music. I feel thankful for the bumpy road that has led me here. And to be able to make my living in this world as a musician and performer is beyond a dream come true. It's everything to me."
Kerr first impressed judges with her original song "November." It earned comparisons to Stevie Nicks by Howie Mandel and to Dolly Parton and Miley Cyrus by Heidi Klum.
"The Truth" netted high praise, as well.
"I love that you stayed true to yourself," Sofia Vergara said. "I love country music and I think your voice is perfect."
Heidi Klum echoed those sentiments, applauding Kerr for her "unique, distinctive voice."
Despite Simon Cowell critiquing Kerr for not crafting a bolder live TV moment through her stage presence and Mandel preferring "November" over "The Truth," all four judges endorsed Kerr to every voter watching from home.
