Launch Your AGT Journey

Imagine stepping onto the America’s Got Talent stage, the spotlight blazing, and the crowd holding its breath. In 2019, Kodi Lee, a blind and autistic pianist, did just that.

With a single chord and a radiant smile, he delivered a performance so raw and emotional that it earned a Golden Buzzer and millions of hearts worldwide. That moment wasn’t just talent—it was preparation, courage, and a story that connected.

If you’re dreaming of your own AGT or Canada’s Got Talent (CGT) moment, but worries like “What if I freeze?” or “Is my act good enough?” are holding you back, you’re not alone. Every star, from Kodi Lee to CGT 2025 winner Jacob Lewis, started as a nervous newcomer.

This guide is your mentorship session, packed with 8 insider secrets from unforgettable AGT and CGT auditions, a 30-day roadmap to prep like a pro, and exclusive tips to navigate the chaos of TV auditions.

Plus, we’re building a community: share your talent goals on X with #AGTAuditionJourney for a chance to be featured in our follow-up article. Ready to start? Let’s make your audition unforgettable.

What Makes an AGT Audition Unforgettable?

Winning AGT auditions aren’t just about raw talent—they’re about authenticity, viral moments, and precision. Judges like Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel crave genuine stories that resonate, while producers hunt for acts that spark cheers, tears, or Instagram reels.

Take Funkyverse, a Toronto-based dance group from CGT 2025. Their high-energy routine, packed with local flair, earned judges’ votes and social media buzz for its dynamic stage presence , What set them apart?

A bold performance, a clear story, and a connection that lit up the crowd.

In this article, we’ll break down 8 secrets from iconic and fresh auditions, share insider hacks (like charming the production crew), and give you tools to shine. Plus, we’re featuring reader stories—submit your audition prep journey via #AGTAuditionJourney on X to inspire others!

8 Insider Secrets From AGT/CGT Auditions

These secrets, drawn from AGT and CGT successes, come with actionable tips and tools to help you stand out.

Secret 1: Hook Judges With a 15-Second Story

Nightbirde’s 2021 AGT audition began with a simple, heartfelt line about her cancer journey, setting the stage for her original song “It’s OK.” That 15-second story hooked judges and viewers, earning a Golden Buzzer. Why? It was authentic and concise, making her performance unforgettable.

Tip: Craft a 15-second intro that answers, “Why is this act my passion?” Maybe it’s a challenge you’ve overcome or a dream you’ve chased since childhood. Rehearse until it feels like a chat, not a script.

Tool: Grab our Story Hook Planner PDF with prompts like “What’s your biggest obstacle?” to nail your story.

Secret 2: Choose an Act That Pops on a Big Stage

Courtney Hadwin, a shy 13-year-old in AGT 2018, transformed into a rockstar with her Janis Joplin cover, filling the stage with wild energy. Her bold choice matched AGT’s massive platform, where subtle acts can get lost.

Tip: Pick a song or act with a peak moment—like a soaring note or a dance flip—that hits at 60–90 seconds. If you’re a singer, add simple movement (e.g., a step or gesture) to own the stage. Not sure what works?

Secret 3: Charm Judges With Quick Wit

Darci Lynne’s 2017 AGT ventriloquism act wasn’t just about puppets—she won judges over with playful banter, showing personality under pressure. Judges like Simon Cowell love performers who handle questions with poise.

Tip: Prep 2–3 short, upbeat responses for common questions like “Why AGT?” or “What’s your dream?” For example, “I’m here to share my story through song—it’s my heart on stage.” Practice staying calm with a smile.

Tool: Download our 5 Judge Questions Cheat Sheet (placeholder) for responses that blend humility and passion.

Secret 4: Create a Shareable Visual Spark

Illumin Drone Shows, a CGT 2025 finalist, wowed with drone choreography that lit up the stage, perfect for TV and social media clips. That visual spark made their act viral-ready.

Tip: Add one budget-friendly visual, like a colorful scarf for dancers or LED wristbands for singers. Test it in rehearsals to ensure it pops without distracting. Need ideas? See our DIY Visual Ideas List (placeholder) for thrift store capes or glow sticks.

Secret 5: Thrive in Production Chaos

Shin Lim’s 2018 AGT magic act stayed flawless despite rushed stage setups, proving his cool-headed professionalism. AGT’s fast-paced production—long waits, quick cues—can rattle newcomers.

Tip: Rehearse in chaotic settings, like with loud music or a tight timer. Arrive early to auditions, observe crew dynamics, and thank them by name for goodwill. Our Production Survival Guide (placeholder) includes tips like “Pack snacks for 8-hour waits” and “Learn terms like ‘cue’ or ‘mark.’”

Secret 6: Ignite the Crowd in 10 Seconds

Kodi Lee’s 2019 AGT audition began with a single piano chord and a warm smile, instantly sparking crowd cheers . That early reaction swayed judges and producers.

Tip: Open with a crowd-pleasing move—a bold note, a quick trick, or a dance spin. Practice scanning the room to connect, even with an imaginary audience. Try our 10-Second Warm-Up Video (placeholder) for vocal runs or stretches to spark energy.

Secret 7: Keep Your Act Lean and Flawless

Carsim Birmingham, a CGT 2025 finalist, focused on a single, powerful vocal performance, avoiding risky extras that could falter. Simplicity ensured perfection under pressure.

Tip: Perfect one core element—a song, a magic trick, a dance move—before adding flair. Cut anything shaky in rehearsals. Use our Lean Act Planner PDF (placeholder) to outline your act’s essentials.

Secret 8: Channel Nerves Into Passion

Jacob Lewis, CGT 2025’s winner, turned audition jitters into a soulful Bon Jovi cover, earning two Golden Buzzers for his raw passion. Nerves, when redirected, fuel unforgettable performances.

Tip: Before performing, try a 10-breath ritual or a power stance (shoulders back, head high). Visualize your ideal act daily.

Your 30-Day AGT Audition Roadmap

Ready to prep like a pro? This 30-day plan is designed for first-timers, turning your talent into a polished act.

Week 1: Shape Your Act

• Day 1–2: Pick a 90-second act that showcases your talent (e.g., a song, dance routine).
• Day 3–4: Draft your 15-second story using the Story Hook Planner.
• Day 5–7: Perform for a friend and note feedback. Tweak your act based on their reactions.
• Milestone: A clear act and story draft.

Week 2: Build Your Performance

• Day 8–10: Rehearse daily, nailing your 10-second opener and peak moment.
• Day 11–12: Add a visual spark (e.g., a prop, costume accent) and test it.
• Day 13–14: Record a practice video and critique your energy, pacing, and visuals.
• Milestone: A rough but complete performance.

Week 3: Test Under Pressure

• Day 15–17: Perform at a local open mic or for a small group to build confidence.
• Day 18–20: Practice with distractions (e.g., a timer, loud music) to mimic audition chaos.
• Day 21: Finalize your 90-second act, locking in every move and note.
• Milestone: A stage-ready act.

Week 4: Final Prep

• Day 22–24: Memorize your story hook and judge responses from the Cheat Sheet.
• Day 25–26: Pack an audition kit: water, costume, USB music backup, snacks.
• Day 27–30: Rehearse twice daily, visualizing success. Submit your AGT video or attend an open call.
• Milestone: Audition submitted or performed!

Dodge These Newcomer Pitfalls

Avoid these traps to keep your audition on track:

• Mimicking Others: Copying Kodi Lee won’t work—your unique spin is your edge.
• Under-Rehearsing: Talent needs polish to shine on AGT’s stage.
• Skipping the Story: No backstory means no connection with judges.
• Fixating on Judges: Don’t watch their faces—focus on your performance.
• Ignoring Recovery: If you miss a note or step, smile and keep going. Practice quick recoveries in rehearsals.

Exclusive AGT Insider Tips

Want the inside scoop? These tips come from AGT’s inner workings:

• Judge Preferences: Howie loves laughs, Simon seeks marketability, Heidi craves emotion, Sofia wants spectacle. Tailor your act to match.
• Production Hacks: Bring multiple music backups (USB, phone). Thank crew by name—they can advocate for you. Pack for long waits (e.g., portable charger, snacks).
• Golden Buzzer Edge: Emotional stories or surprises, like Jacob Lewis’s CGT 2025 double Golden Buzzer, often win buzzers.
• Recover From a ‘No’: If a judge says no, stay gracious. Say, “I’ll keep chasing my dream!” and exit strong—producers notice resilience.

Inspiration From AGT/CGT Stars

AGT and CGT stars started where you are. Nightbirde said, “Your story makes you unstoppable,” while Jacob Lewis shared, “Every stage is a chance to grow.” Their journeys launched careers—Grace VanderWaal became a pop star, and Funkyverse’s 2025 CGT run sparked Toronto pride.

Reader Stories: We’re featuring your audition prep stories! Submit yours via #AGTAuditionJourney on X. For example, Sarah, a 19-year-old singer, shared: “I used the Story Hook Planner and finally feel confident about my audition!” Your story could inspire thousands.

Call: Join the #AGTAuditionJourney community on X to connect with other dreamers and share your progress.