This was posted on Tuesday, September 12, 2017 by RODNEY HO/rho@ajc.com on his AJC Radio & TV Talk blog
"America's Got Talent" has not just one preternaturally talented young Asian girl who sings beyond her years: they have two that made it to the top 22 semifinals.
They split those acts into two separate shows, each where only five of them will make it to the finals. But to have two similar acts in the finals? The producers wanted to minimize that chance by placing both girls on the same night.
Johns Creek's Angelica Hale, 10, is being pitted against Celine Tam, a nine year old who is literally named after Celine Dion and sang "My Heart Will Go On" during her initial audition. Tom went first, which is a decent time to go on, relatively speaking, though folks might forget about them by the end of the night when they decide to vote.
Angelica received the classic "pimp" spot, as I used to call the last performance of the night. Rarely does someone who performs last get eliminated. That's because the producers watch the dress rehearsals and are seeking a strong finish. Giving someone that spot is a sign of confidence.
She again opted for a modern song, as she did during the quarterfinals with "Clarity" by Zedd. "We slowed it down so she could accentuate her vocals," said her dad James before the semifinals. "It was much better for her than the original."
This time, she picked David Guetta's "Without You." Mel B didn't think it was a smart song choice for her voice. Simon Cowell said he likes that she took a big chance. Howie Mandel said what judges say when they know a contestant needs a boost: vote! There's no doubt she has a more robust voice than Tam.
Angelica's message before the finals to me during an interview: "I really need the votes. I want to make the finals. and I want to sing for you guys. All the love and support has been amazing so far. Whether I win or lose, I will still be a winner in my heart. "
Tam chose a Disney song "How Far I'll Go," which felt very theatrical.
The results will air on Wednesday night.
Hale is now living in Los Angeles because her mom is pregnant with Angelica's future sister (Angelica) and traveling back and forth would not be wise. The plan is to return to Atlanta in November, her dad James said late last month.
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