'America's Got Talent' Judges Pick Their Favorite Acts In First Live Show

The first 12 quarterfinalists performed on Tuesday night’s first live episode of America’s Got Talent, and judges Mel B, Howie Mandel and Howard Stern already have their number one picks, but are any of them winners?

Mel B was particularly taken with the Baila Conmigo dance troupe. This child and adult salsa group put on quite the show. Mel B was floored at the revelation that the youngest performers were 6 and 7 years old and congratulated them on their ability to keep up with the adults. The former Scary Spice also told the group that they were her favorite, and she implored the audience to vote to keep the group around, saying, “I’m so glad that you’re here. I hope people vote for you, you are my favorite.”

Stern, the toughest judge of the night, was head-over-heels for singer Emily West, who performed Sia’s “Chandelier.”

Mandel pledged his allegiance to young performer Miguel Dakota, who performed a cover of “Come Together.” Dakota’s performance took the judges' breaths away, and the judges accurately pointed out that his sultry vocals and laid back rock style would earn him votes from the ladies.

Other highlights of the night included tap duo Sean & Luke and the Flight Crew Jump Rope Team.

Audiences had until noon on Wednesday to vote for their favorite acts to move forward to the semifinals. Seven acts will be sent home on the America's Got Talent results show, airing Wednesday at 9 p.m. on NBC.

Article by Olivia Truffaut-Wong

Olivia Truffaut-Wong was born and raised in Berkeley, California, where she developed her love of all things entertainment. After moving to New York City to earn her degree in Film Studies, she stayed on the East Coast to follow her passion and become an entertainment writer. She lives on a diet of television, movies and food.