'AGT' Season 19: Watch audience's strong reaction to Howie Mandel's comment on Ashes & Arrows song
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA: During the most recent episode of 'America's Got Talent' Season 19, the members of the country band Ashes & Arrows came together after meeting at an open mic night where they bonded over a shared passion for a song one of them had written tried to stun the judges as well as the viewers.
After their performance of their original song 'Born to Love', Howie Mandel complimented their vocals and harmonies, but suggested that their song may be better suited for a bar scene rather than the NBC popular show.
However, Heidi Klum defended the Nashville-based country group by saying, "I think it was a nice song," to which Howie replied, "Aren't we looking for great!"
On the other hand, Sofia Vergara praised Ashes & Arrows and described their overall performance as "great.”
Simon Cowell ultimately agreed with Heidi and Sofia, acknowledging that the band's decision to audition for the show was the right one and emphasizing the importance of authenticity in music.
With three “yes” votes from Simon, Heidi, and Sofia, Ashes & Arrows secured a spot in the next round of the competition.
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Why did Howie Mandel vote 'no' for Ashes & Arrows?
The band's performance was met with thunderous applause and cheers from the audience, prompting Vergara to rise from her seat in a standing ovation, while Judge Simon Cowell looked on in awe at the impressive display on stage.
However, there was one judge who refrained from joining in on the singing. Mandel, who ultimately ended up being the sole dissenting voice in the group, revealed his reasons for not being a passionate supporter of the idea. He articulated his reservations and explained why he ultimately chose to vote against it.
“The audience loves you, um, you have great voices, great harmony, but personally, um,” Howie said.
As Vergara anticipated a negative comment, she preemptively shouted "Boo!" with the audience chiming in, creating a playful and lively atmosphere before Mandel proceeded with his remarks.
“This was a great song in a pub. If I was in a bar and you guys were playing I would have the best night ever,” Howie added.
Soon after his feedback, the audience erupted in a chorus of disapproving boos that reverberated throughout the room, indicating their strong disagreement with his opinions.
Who is Ashes & Arrows on 'AGT' Season 19?
Ashes & Arrows is an energetic country/rock group that was born in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, and the Alps of Arrowtown, New Zealand. Their captivating vocals, meaningful lyrics, and charismatic stage presence have captivated audiences from Asheville to Arrowtown.
In 2021, Ciaran McMeeken, Benjamin Voight, and Jonathan Calhoun crossed paths at a local open mic night in downtown Asheville, where they were all at a musical crossroads. This meeting sparked a newfound passion for creating and performing music together, leading them to form Ashes & Arrows.
Influenced by bands like The Avett Brothers, Judah & The Lion, and NEEDTOBREATHE, Ashes & Arrows crafts authentic and unique songs that resonate with listeners. United by a shared love for music and a desire to reignite their musical spark, Ciaran, Benjamin, and Jonathan came together to explore their collective musical identity.
What song did Ashes & Arrows perform during their 'AGT' audition?
Following their appearance on the 'AGT' stage, Ashes & Arrows showcased their own composition titled 'Born to Love.' The members of the band delivered a captivating performance that left the audience in awe, showcasing their talent and passion for creating music that resonates with listeners.
The song 'Born to Love' featured powerful lyrics, infectious melodies, and impressive instrumental arrangements that highlighted the band's unique sound and artistic vision.
Talking of the song, Voigt told the crowd, “It’s basically about the fact that every person at some point has a heavy moment that they have to deal with and that we’re born to love, we’re not just born to struggle."
Calhoun began the song with his velvety, soulful voice filled with raw emotion, setting the tone for the other two singers to join in harmoniously. The melody reverberated through the room, captivating the audience with its haunting beauty.
Their ballad with an optimistic tone delved into the enduring themes of never giving up, finding hope in difficult situations, and displaying unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
'America's Got Talent' Season 19 airs on NBC every Tuesday at 8 pm ET.