The sight of an achievement [is] the greatest gift that a human being could offer to others. —Ayn Rand.

This week for Soul-Fuel Friday, I’d like to share three powerful performances by Angelina Jordan. This thirteen-year-old Norwegian singer recently competed on America’s Got Talent: The Champions, and I was truly mesmerized by her renditions of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” and Lewis Capaldi’s “Someone You Loved.” (See videos below.)

Jordan arranges and performs these beloved classics with such virtuosity, delicacy, and passion that she moved the judges and entire audience to standing ovations. After hearing “Bohemian Rhapsody,” judge Heidi Klum enthusiastically slammed the “golden buzzer,” advancing Jordan directly to the finals. (Each judge may hit the golden buzzer only once per season.)

Jordan’s performances transform these classic songs into something completely fresh, with a new yet sophisticated texture and feel. Starting soft and soulful, she gradually builds intensity and passion, peaking in powerful crescendos before trailing delicately into endings simultaneously calming and haunting. To me, these three performances are addictive and intoxicating. I can’t wait to hear more from this artist.

I’d love to know what Elton John and Lewis Capaldi think of Jordan’s renditions of their songs. As for Freddie, he must be smiling in heaven.

“Bohemian Rhapsody”

“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”

“Someone You Loved”