He’s been likened to Susan Boyle’s humility and tremendous skill.
Tom Ball, a 23-year-old school teacher from West Sussex, stunned the Britain’s Got Talent judges with his rendition of Sam Smith’s “Writing’s on the Wall.”
Ball’s father and fiancee were there, waiting for him to begin singing, but you can sense Tom’s father’s anxiety on his face.
The normal introductions were made, with the cheerful gentleman from West Sussex engaging in witty banter with Simon Cowell, who mispronounced his name as’ Tumble.’ His unassuming demeanor won over the four judges.
“I’m happy, I’m overjoyed!” he said.
Ball went on to claim that his kids had no idea he was auditioning and that if things didn’t go well, he would just accept it and go on.
What a wonderful young man.
But Tom’s music choice revealed a glimpse of his confidence, since Sam Smith’s James Bond theme is not an easy tune to sing. Not even while singing karaoke with pals.
As that iconic prelude started to play, the crowd at the London Palladium went silent. But as Ball delivered that first line, jaws fell and eyes opened.
The applause became louder, and even the judges realized they were on to something spectacular.
Ball is reminiscent of Susan Boyle. That lovely, charming air, as if he’s just some average guy next door going about his business without a care in the world.
Ball nailed the song, hitting Sam Smith’s extremely high notes and even demonstrating his control in certain places. The dude can sing, and he can sing well!
“My daughter’s teacher claims he’s as nice in person as he came across during the audition:) So many of his kids watched it tonight, they even established a “fanclub” WhatsApp group. He was genuinely fantastic!” commented one spectator.
Do you believe Ball deserved to win the golden buzzer? What did the four judges have to say about the West Sussex teacher?
Amanda Holden was effusive in her appreciation. “Who knew you were such a force?! That was an outstanding audition. One of the most talented vocalists we’ve had in the previous sixteen years. ”
“I was truly affected by that voice and that performance,” Alesha Dixon stated. It was really one-of-a-kind. It was the ideal setting for an audition.
Simon had the following to say: “There are a lot of amazing singers out there, but I feel your personality plays a big role in these auditions, and you’re really pleasant.”
“I don’t believe there was a single person in this room who wished for you to fail.”
“You never forget a wonderful teacher; how blessed your students are to have you educating them,” David Walliams said.
“Tumble” didn’t get the golden buzzer, but he did get 4004 “yeses” that night.
Not a terrible start for such a nice young guy who never questioned his abilities. We hope to see and hear more from Tom Ball in the future!
Watch Tom Ball as he astounds the BGT audience below!