Nobody saw the future coming for British adolescent Courtney Hadwin when she tried out for America’s Got Talent. As she made her way onto the stage, 13-year-old Courtney seemed incredibly timid. She was so anxious that she told the judges so.

Mel B tried to reassure her by saying, “Don’t be anxious. Even though there are a lot of people here and the stage is large, you obviously have a purpose for being here. Try it out. My best wishes.

After that, Courtney stunned the judges and the crowd by launching into “Hard to Handle” by Otis Redding. As they all marveled at her extraordinary performance, jaws dropped.

A standing ovation had already been extended to her by the time the song concluded. Her dad was overjoyed as he watched from behind the scenes with host Tyra Banks. “Bloody hell, Courtney!” Simon Cowell, who is notoriously tough, blasted. Upon first appearance, you were a timid little girl, but your singing voice gives you a lion’s pride. Truly remarkable.

She advanced to the live performances without a second thought after fellow judge Howie Mandel pressed the golden buzzer.

Twitter was abuzz with admiration for Courtney’s performance, and she garnered a slew of new followers. Courtney had previously competed on The Voice Kids UK.