America’s Got Talent (AGT) has long been a global stage for performers to showcase extraordinary skills. This season, one name captured attention across continents: Gabriella Laberge, a French-Canadian singer, violinist, and songwriter whose audition became one of the most talked-about moments of the season.
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Perseverance
Born and raised in Saint-Basile-le-Grand, Quebec, Gabriella developed a love for music at an early age, beginning with the violin and later expanding into singing, songwriting, and composition. Before AGT, she made a name for herself on international stages:
The Voice France (Season 5): Her blind audition of Coldplay’s The Scientist impressed judges and advanced her through multiple rounds.
Destination Eurovision 2019: Competing with her song “On cherche encore (Never Get Enough)”, she reached the semi-finals and garnered a dedicated fanbase.
These experiences honed her artistry, blending technical skill with emotional depth—a combination that set the stage for her AGT moment.
The Audition That Defied Expectations
Gabriella’s audition aired during the season’s final round of initial auditions. She began with a delicate violin solo, immediately drawing the judges’ attention, though Simon Cowell seemed poised to hit the red buzzer.
Then came a pivotal moment: Gabriella transitioned seamlessly from her instrumental piece into a heartfelt vocal performance of James Blunt’s “Goodbye My Lover.” Her rich, soulful voice complemented her violin playing, captivating both the judges and the audience.
The performance turned the tension into triumph. By the end, all four judges were on their feet, delivering unanimous “yes” votes. The standing ovation from the audience solidified her moment as unforgettable.
Beyond the Judges: The Impact of Her Performance
Although Gabriella ultimately did not advance to the live shows—her name did appear in deliberations but was not among the top 36 contestants—her audition left a lasting mark:
Global Exposure: Millions of viewers discovered her music, extending her reach far beyond previous audiences.
Artistic Validation: The audition showcased her ability to combine instrumental mastery with emotive singing.
Resilience Under Pressure: She transformed what could have been a brief, precarious audition into a definitive artistic statement.
Gabriella’s Broader Career
AGT was a milestone, not the entirety of her journey. Gabriella continues to grow as a multi-disciplinary artist:
Releasing original music, including albums, EPs, and singles that highlight her songwriting and instrumental versatility.
Performing internationally, leveraging her experience in both Canadian and European music scenes.
Connecting with audiences through emotionally resonant performances that blend technical skill with storytelling.
Why Gabriella Laberge Matters
Gabriella’s AGT audition is more than a single performance; it is a testament to artistic dedication and versatility. Her combination of violin and vocal performance, her emotional depth, and her ability to seize the moment under pressure exemplify the power of music to communicate beyond words.
Even though she did not reach the live shows, Gabriella’s appearance on AGT remains a career-defining moment that fans and judges continue to celebrate. For Gabriella herself, stepping onto the stage was a step toward fulfilling her lifelong dream: to do music for the rest of her life.
In Her Own Words:
“This is the opportunity of my life. I want to do music for the rest of my life.”
Gabriella Laberge’s journey reminds us that talent, resilience, and authenticity can create unforgettable moments—sometimes in just a few minutes on a global stage.