Bay Melnick Virgolino, a ten-year-old musician from New York City, arrived on the America’s Got Talent stage with an enormous presence and an even bigger guitar. His biography instantly made him stand out, even though he acknowledged having “good nerves” before to his audition. He began playing the instrument at the young age of five, motivated by his fascination with the famed guitarist Slash of Guns N’ Roses. As his parents, whom he lovingly referred to as his “roadies,” looked on onstage, Bay was prepared to demonstrate that being a true rock star does not depend on one’s age.
In addition to performing a song, Bay’s energetic performance embodied the essence of a rock legend. The entire audience was up and cheering as he displayed control and flair while delivering strong vocals and surprisingly complex guitar lines. He was enjoying the “best time” of his life, according to one judge, and his performance was joyful in addition to being technically sound. He demonstrated that he was destined to dominate the largest stages by channeling the charismatic energy of an experienced performer.
The youthful genius left the judges in complete awe. Heidi Klum referred to him as “one of the coolest kid[s] I have ever met” and a “little mini tiny little superstar,” while Mel B expressed her admiration for the performance and said she thought Lenny Kravitz would be proud. He was given a pass based solely on the crowd’s response; as Howie Mandel noted, “There’s no question… this audience just said it.” Due to his unquestionable talent and electrifying rock-and-roll attitude, Bay received a unanimous four “yeses,” paving the way for his life to change in front of millions of people around the world.
