The journey of Chicago’s Leo Catholic High School all-boys choir on “America’s Got Talent” is about to reach its climax. This week, the young performers from Auburn Gresham will give one last performance in their quest for the $1 million grand prize. Tune in to NBC on Tuesday at 8 p.m. to watch their finals performance, with results announced in a live two-hour finale on Wednesday night.
The choir, consisting of 18 dedicated members, dreams of using the potential prize money for their college tuition. As “America’s Got Talent” champions are determined by viewer votes, fans have the chance to vote up to ten times through the NBC app or online between 5 p.m. Tuesday and 6 a.m. Wednesday.
Ahead of their final performance, the choir members expressed a desire to inspire the nation and showcase a different narrative for Chicago, particularly for Black and Brown communities. “There’s more to us than just what people may have heard or seen in the news,” said 17-year-old Steven Jackson, a senior at Leo High School.
The talented group embarked on their “America’s Got Talent” journey in March, auditioning in front of judges Simon Cowell, Sofía Vergara, Mel B, and Howie Mandel. Their debut on the show with a cover of “Born For This” by The Score aired in June, marking the start of their remarkable progress. Over the past six months, they’ve honed their skills with the show’s production team, mastering choreography and enhancing their stage presence.
Despite the challenge of balancing travel and virtual schooling, the choir has thrived, earning praise from Cowell last week for their exceptional growth in the competition. The boys attribute their advancement to hard work, compassion, and the ability to learn from feedback. “Every performance that we’ve ever had on the show, we knew how to get the judges. We knew how to get the crowd,” said 16-year-old junior Kevin Wilson.
Beyond their musical accomplishments, the choir has developed a strong bond among its members, referring to their connection as a brotherhood that always reunites after disagreements. “Leo is the brotherhood. And we always just bring it,” said 16-year-old Blake Moore.
For those who wish to cheer them on, Leo Catholic High School is hosting a watch party on Tuesday at 7 p.m. in their auditorium. Additionally, a viewing event will take place in Marionette Park at 115 Bourbon Street, opening to the public at 6:30 p.m.
This journey on “America’s Got Talent” has provided the Leo Catholic High School choir with a platform to showcase their talent and change perceptions, embodying the spirit of determination and unity. As they take to the stage for their final performance, they hope to leave a lasting impression and inspire audiences nationwide.