Blake Bergere would much rather fill hearts and minds with his music than flip burgers. That’s what’s at stake for the singing hopeful, who along with his childhood friend Nick Lorenz is chasing the dream on NBC‘s America’s Got Talent.
The musical duo from New Albany, Ohio are competing as Bird & Byron in this 21st season of AGT. Bergere, a vocalist with soul in his chest, and Lorenz, with his effects-laden guitar work and programmed backing instruments, took the less easy route through the competition by way of the Judges’ Callbacks, a new second-chance round for acts that earned “Yes” votes during regular auditions.
On Tuesday night’s episode (Aug. 11), and facing elimination, the pair performed an original number, “By My Side.” For Bergere, progress in AGT is nothing short of a dream opportunity. Back home, he works at a burger restaurant. “There’s a lot on the line here,” he remarks in a package.
So, nerves could be forgiven.
“I think you’re great,” judge Howie Mandel enthused after their performance. “And your music and your voice is so distinctive. But, you know, we’re talking about the showmanship.”
For this week two of Judges’ Callbacks, Mandel and Sofía Vergara received support from guest advisors Nikki Glaser, Lele Pons, and Sebastián Yatra.
Glaser chimed in, sharing with Bergere some advice on leading from the front. “I saw you close your eyes,” the comedian explained. “You didn’t open them again. And I was thinking, man, if he opened his eyes, he’d see we’re all just grooving so hard right now. And you’re scared of seeing something that wasn’t even happening.” She insisted, “be the front man.”
Mandel agreed. “You’re closing us off. Share the vibe. And share the vibe with America.”
The childhood friends would be the last act to learn of their future in the contest.
“Your singing is so good. Your playing is so haunting. It’s really original,” Mandel remarked in his sit-down with the lads. “I think that you guys, regardless of what happens here, are already a success. If it was up to me, I would let you go to the live show.”
After a pregnant pause for effect, and a reminder that, yes, Mandel does have that power. And he waved them through. They’re going to the Live shows, along with the likes of Nene Royal, Cris Sosa, Daniel Alvarez, Kameron Marshall, Brook Lynn and Olivia Befus. Those acts eliminated included Naimana and Daniele, Rynia Kando, Vahtang and Darrell Moten.
The Live Quarterfinals begin Tuesday, Aug. 18 on NBC, and stream the following day on Peacock.
Watch the performance and results videos below.
