Carly Rose Sonenclar, a 13-year-old student from Westchester, New York, had no signs of the power she was going to unleash as she hit the stage at The X Factor USA in 2012. When she first introduced herself to the judges, they seemed interested but perhaps a little skeptical because many young artists struggle to handle the pressure of such a vast venue. Carly, on the other hand, remained calm as she shared her passion for music and her wish to showcase her gift to everyone.
When she began singing “Feeling Good,” by Nina Simone, the whole mood of the room shifted. Carly’s performance was so full of mature, deep depth and incredible control that it completely shocked the judges and audience instead of sounding like a typical teenage pop star. Her deep, bluesy tone and effortless ability to hit soaring high notes that were way beyond her years demonstrated her special, extraordinary gift. Everyone in the audience stood up as soon as she reached the song’s top, realizing they were witnessing the emergence of a superstar.
The judges’ responses were nothing short of ecstatic, and L.A. Reid and Simon Cowell were obviously surprised by the loudness of her voice. Demi Lovato and Britney Spears were equally impressed by her talent, and Simon allegedly expressed shock that a 13-year-old could have such a mature voice. With four overwhelming “Yes” votes, Carly was the season’s runner-up and one of the most memorable contestants in the history of the program. Her audition, which is still a lesson in talent, proved that age is just a number when it comes to true excellence.
