Ava Swiss, a survivor of the Oxford School Shooting, earned a standing ovation with her emotional performance of Lauren Daigle’s “Remember” on America’s Got Talent (AGT) on Tuesday evening (July 26).
The 18-year-old and her brother Reid were both in Oxford High School the day that the gunman killed four and wounded several others. Swiss, who is still recovering from the tragic incident, auditioned for AGT with hopes to inspire and help people heal with her voice.
“I chose the song ‘Remember’ by Lauren Daigle. I chose this song because back on November 30, my brother and I were part of the Oxford school shooting,” Swiss explained to AGT judge Simon Cowell. “We lost four of our students and seven others were injured, one of which was a teacher.”
Swiss’ AGT auditioned was taped prior to her becoming a graduate of Oxford High School, however, at the time of the performance Cowell asked Swiss how she was coping after witnessing the awful tragedy that occurred in November 2021.
“It’s been hard. I remember my brother and I were talking, and we said there’s no way we’re ever stepping foot back in the school, but we’ve actually been in person in the school for about two months now, so things are getting better,” Swiss shared, before adding, “When I sing, I remember the good. I remember my community, my family, the love, and that it’s all there for me, and it will help me get to where I need to be, so that’s why I am so grateful I am able to be here today so I can share it with more people than I ever thought I could.”
Swiss then went on to deliver a stunning rendition of Lauren Daigle’s “Remember.” During her performance, Swiss effortlessly belted out the lyrics to the emotional tune. She truly showcased her powerhouse vocals as she confidently performed the Daigle hit.
Following her incredible performance, she earned a standing ovation and roaring applause from the crowd and AGT judges: Howie Mandel, Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, and Sofía Vergara.
The judges were left speechless at first, only being able to say “wow,” and “amazing!”
Mandel then praised her performance and strength for being able to overcome tragedy and bring light to those who need it.
“In life, it’s tough to show up especially after going through incredible trauma,” Mandel said. “The fact that you can break through that and shine the way you did today is so inspirational for every human being. You really shine. That was wonderful.”
Klum then gushed, “You are incredible. You have pipes and they are so special.”
Swiss’ flawless performance left Vergara with goosebumps.
“It took my breath away,” Vergara added. “You sound beautiful. I thought the song that you picked was perfect. You were not just singing; you were showing us your feelings and it gave me goosebumps.”
Cowell then revealed that Swiss’ performance will be one that will stick with him forever.
“I think you are gutsy,” Cowell admitted. “I really, really do. To me, this is one of those auditions, I will never forget. I have so much respect for you and, on top of that, you have a great voice. You are somebody I am so happy to have met. The thing with this show is we meet the most extraordinary people every single year and now we’ve met you.”
Ultimately, Swiss earned four yeses and advanced to the next round of the competition.
America’s Got Talent airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.