The members of Musicality, a singing group from Curie Metropolitan High School on the Southwest Side, looked elated after auditioning for the judges in the first round of “America’s Got Talent.”
They returned to the stage on Wednesday’s episode with tears in their eyes. The group shared that the sister of one of its members was recently murdered and left by a Dumpster.
“Every single one of us is hurting right now,” director Michael Gibson said.
Their pain showed as they sang Demi Lovato’s “Skyscraper.” The performance garnered them a standing ovation from the audience and praise from the judges.
“It’s incredible to watch you guys perform. The unity and the love you have for each other is so infectious. It was really, really nice,” said guest judge Louis Tomlinson, of One Direction fame.
“I love what I hear. It’s beautiful,” judge Howie Mandel said.
Musicality was one of seven acts, out of 20, to advance from Wednesday’s episode to next week’s live shows. Judge Simon Cowell asked the group what winning the NBC competition would mean.
“It would mean that hope is alive for urban youth in America to express themselves through what they love,” Gibson said.
After hearing the judges’ decision, the members of Musicality tearfully hugged each other.
“America’s Got Talent” airs 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The winner is slated to receive $1 million.
