At just 21 years old, Yoli Mayor stepped onto the America’s Got Talent stage in 2017, carrying both excitement and nerves. A Miami native with a rich, soulful voice, she had been singing her entire life, but this moment—standing before millions—was the biggest test of her career.

Confident yet humble, Yoli began her audition with a carefully chosen song. But within moments, Simon Cowell interrupted her. “This isn’t working,” he said bluntly. A hush fell over the crowd, tension thick in the air. It seemed like her dream was slipping away—but instead of dismissing her, Simon urged her to start over with a song that truly showcased her talent.

Without hesitation, Yoli pivoted, launching into a deeply emotional rendition of Ed Sheeran’s Make It Rain.

From the first note, the entire room was spellbound. Her voice, raw and full of emotion, carried the weight of every lyric, filling the theater with soul-stirring intensity. This wasn’t just a performance—it was a revelation. Her passion was unmistakable, her delivery heartfelt.

As she soared through the song’s climax, the audience erupted, rising to their feet in a thunderous standing ovation. The judges were visibly moved—Heidi Klum clapped with excitement, Mel B sat in awe, and even Simon, who had initially doubted her, looked thoroughly impressed.

When the last note faded, the reaction was undeniable.

“You are a diamond in the rough,” Howie Mandel praised. “That was a moment, and moments like that win competitions.”

Simon, now smiling, admitted, “I wasn’t sure at first, but wow—you just proved exactly why you belong here.”

With four enthusiastic yeses, Yoli advanced to the next round, her performance quickly going viral. That night, she didn’t just earn a place in the competition—she proved that second chances can create the most unforgettable moments.