: Before singing, Kristen shared her background as a social media creator known for filming herself singing while making protein shakes and coffee. She mentioned auditioning to pursue her dreams rather than settling for a job at a local Home Depot.
praised her range and tone, calling it an "unbelievable" performance.
Kristen Cruz’s audition for America's Got Talent (2022) is one of the most viral moments in the show's history. A 19-year-old from Crowley, Texas, she shocked judges with a massive, soul-infused voice that contrasted her initially shy demeanor. : Before singing, Kristen shared her background as
: Kristen received four "yes" votes and advanced to the live rounds. Although she made it into the Top 5 for her performance night during the Qualifiers, she did not receive enough public votes to reach the Finals.
: Since the show, she has continued to build a massive following on social media, surpassing 6.5 million followers on TikTok. She has released original music, including "Love Shouldn't Be a Fight" and "Dancing in the Sky". Kristen Cruz’s audition for America's Got Talent (2022)
: She performed a powerful cover of "I See Red" by Everybody Loves an Outlaw. Judge Reactions :
: As of early 2026, she remains active in the arts community, serving as the Chair of the Tyler Arts and Culture Collective and performing live shows around Texas. Although she made it into the Top 5
and Howie Mandel were equally stunned by her "rawness" and the immediate confidence she displayed the moment she started singing. What Happened Next?