‘America’s Got Talent’ Season 12, First Live Show Recap: Darci Lynne, Preacher Lawson On Top

Tuesday marked the first of the live shows for America’s Got Talent season 12. Twelve acts performed on the AGT stage.

AMERICA’S GOT TALENT RECAP

First on stage to try to impress America (and the judges) was Christian Guardino, who entered the night as Howie Mandel‘s Golden Buzzer pick from the last round. He sand “Make It Rain” and earned a standing ovation from the crowd and judges panel. Simon Cowell thought he sounded technically great, but wants to see him challenge himself next week.

Next up were Artyon and Paige, pre-teen dancers who did an elaborate tribute to Footloose. Both Howie and Simon agreed this performance was a step up from their previous ones.

Air Force Academy a capella group In the Stairwell took the stage third, performed a cover of “Some Nights,” and received a standing ovation from all the judges except for Howie. Mel B was their most enthusiastic supporter of the night, applauding their singing and their audience appeal.

The Singing Trump was up next, giving a unique performance that was half dance, half presidential impersonation. He sang a combo of “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon and MC Hammer‘s “Can’t Touch This,” all while screens were flashing with American flags. At one point, the performer took off his suit pants to reveal star and stripe themed Hammer pants.

9-year-old Angelica Hale came out next, fresh off of Chris Hardwick‘s Golden Buzzer. She belted out “Clarity” by Zedd with unbelievable range and control, and the judges were all impressed.

Next up was Bello Nock, who was given a second chance by the judges, despite not making it through to the live shows. He proved himself with a daring stunt on the Wheel of Death, jumping and bouncing inside the large spinning wheel on stage. Heidi Klum was particularly taken with the comedic and terrifying act.

Korean dance group Just Jerk wowed the crowd with their pyrotechnic and high-energy dance performance. Klum, however, thought they didn’t bring as much excitement as in the past, but the group promised they would show more of what they are capable of next week.

Deep-voiced clown Puddles Pity Party sang a slowed down version of Lorde‘s “Royals.” Though different, the judges agreed the performance didn’t do much to wow them.

Crowd favorite Preacher Lawson did a quick standup comedy routine, and the the judges fawned over his humor. Klum was the most hesitant applauder, but it appears Lawson has done enough to go far in the show.

Then we had showstoppers Emily and Billy England, who put on death-defying that began with the siblings on roller skates, with Emily balanced spinning on Billy’s head. While repetitive, their acts never cease to amaze.

Next, sultry-voiced Yoli Mayor sang an impressive rendition of Rag’n’Bone Man’s “Human.” The judges have had issues with Mayor in past weeks, as she struggles to show her true personality, and they never feel the song choice is right for her. Cowell, regardless, urges the audience to recognize her talent and vote her through.

The final act of the night was 12-year-old ventriloquist Darci Lynne, who did an adorable cover of the Jackson 5’s “Who’s Lovin’ You,” which she dedicated to Mel B. She brought a new mouse puppet Oscar, who claims to be in love with the judge. The judges were on their feet before the end of the performance.

Tune in tonight to see who will make it through.