Watch Kristen Cruz's powerful audition where she stuns the judges with her performance of 'I See Red':
praised her range and tone, calling it an "unbelievable" performance.
Kristen Cruz’s audition for America's Got Talent (2022) is one of the most viral moments in the show's history. A 19-year-old from Crowley, Texas, she shocked judges with a massive, soul-infused voice that contrasted her initially shy demeanor. Watch Kristen Cruz's powerful audition where she stuns
and Howie Mandel were equally stunned by her "rawness" and the immediate confidence she displayed the moment she started singing. What Happened Next?
described her voice as "ferocious" and admitted she wanted it for herself. and Howie Mandel were equally stunned by her
: Before singing, Kristen shared her background as a social media creator known for filming herself singing while making protein shakes and coffee. She mentioned auditioning to pursue her dreams rather than settling for a job at a local Home Depot.
: As of early 2026, she remains active in the arts community, serving as the Chair of the Tyler Arts and Culture Collective and performing live shows around Texas. : Before singing, Kristen shared her background as
: Since the show, she has continued to build a massive following on social media, surpassing 6.5 million followers on TikTok. She has released original music, including "Love Shouldn't Be a Fight" and "Dancing in the Sky".