Indonesian Contestant Putri Ariani ‘Hit It Out of the Park’ on ‘AGT’ Finale: Watch
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When Putri Ariani performs, jaws drop, tears fall.
That happened again, when Ariani delivered her last performance Tuesday night (Sept. 26) for the 18th season finale of America’s Got Talent.
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Hailing from Indonesia, the gifted singer and pianist scored Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer during the audition phase, the judges remarking that she sounded like, or indeed was, an angel. On that occasion, she performed two songs, the second of which was “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word.”
For the finale, Ariani performed another Elton John and Bernie Taupin classic, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” Seated at a sparkling grand piano, and complemented with a gospel choir, Ariani had the room on its feet — including all four judges.
Last time, Cowell was left “speechless.” On this occasion, the Brit found his words.
“It’s got nothing to do with the fact I gave her the Golden Buzzer,” he remarked afterwards, “I think any one of us would have given Putri the Golden Buzzer. It’s just that you are one of those rare little diamonds we come across every few years. Who is naturally born to do this.”
The teenage contestant is blind, an obstacle she overcomes when performing. “You’ve overcome so much in your life, to hopefully fulfill your dream on this show,” Cowell added. “And boy, after that do you deserve it.”
Fellow judge Howie Mandel remarked that, every time, in every round, Putri “hit it out of the park.” Her voice and her talent, “perfection.” If this was just a singing competition, she had it in the bag, he remarked. AGT, however, is broader than that, with dancers, magicians, comedians and more lining up in the 11-strong final.
Heidi Klum said it was a “moving” performance. “You could’ve not done it any better.”
Ariani had the final word. “I believe we are able, we are capable and we are equal. So, don’t be afraid to keep reaching for your dreams. Your dream will come true if you believe it.”
The winner will be announced Wednesday (Sept. 28) in the second of the two-part final on NBC.
Watch Putri Ariani’s performance below.
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