Sophie Saylor, an 18-year-old visually impaired singer from Muskegon, Michigan, made an indelible mark during her recent appearance on the fourth episode of Star Search. Saylor delivered a breathtaking rendition of Billie Eilish’s “What I Was Made For,” captivating judges and the audience alike with her powerful voice and heartfelt performance.
In a competitive showcase, Sophie faced off against returning favorite Bear Bailey, known for his viral performances of country songs at gas stations. While Bailey performed “Lose Control” by Teddy Swims, showcasing his strength as a country artist, it was Saylor’s performance that truly shifted the atmosphere. Her heartfelt interpretation of Eilish’s Oscar-winning song left judges visibly moved, prompting judge Sarah Michelle Gellar to remark, “You picked a song that clearly meant a lot to you. It meant a lot to me. I felt the song was you.”
The emotional connection Sophie displayed not only resonated with the judges but also earned her a significant victory. Despite Bear receiving four stars from all the judges, Sophie’s scores included two fours and a five from Gellar, bringing her combined audience score to 4.17, which secured her a spot among the night’s finalists.
Sophie’s journey to Star Search is as inspiring as her performance. Born with a rare condition called septo-optic dysplasia, she has been visually impaired since infancy. However, her love for music flourished as a source of joy during challenging times. In her introduction video, she expressed the deep connection she has with singing, highlighting her belief that her disability does not define her abilities but rather contributes to her unique talent.
Before her Star Search debut, Sophie had already started to carve out a niche for herself in the music world by performing at local showcases and building a following of over 400 on TikTok under the handle @sophie_sings731. Her gratitude for the opportunity to perform on such a prominent platform was evident when she shared her excitement on social media, expressing her appreciation for the support she has received.
As for her influences, Sophie attributes her love for music to her mother, who was a devoted fan of Britney Spears. This admiration led Sophie to learn many of Spears’s songs, further fueling her passion for singing and performance.
With her powerful voice and inspirational background, Sophie Saylor is certainly a talent to watch as she continues her journey on Star Search. Her story and performance not only showcase her abilities but also serve as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of challenges.