Deaf ‘AGT’ singer: I faced biggest fear
St. Cloud singer Mandy Harvey has astounded the “America’s Got Talent” judges and audience a couple of times so far this season.
The deaf performer could do it again when the NBC contest starts its semifinals this week.
Central Florida is well represented this year. Orlando comedian Preacher Lawson has made it to the semifinals as well. He and Harvey will perform Tuesday, and results will be announced Wednesday.
The finals will air Sept. 19, and the winner will be named Sept. 20.
In June, judge Simon Cowell gave Harvey, 29, his golden buzzer and advanced her to the live broadcasts. She had performed “Try,” a song she wrote, and Cowell called the performance “one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen.”
Harvey lost her hearing when she was 18 because of a connective tissue disorder. She left music in May 2007 and didn’t sing or try to sing until the fall of 2008.
In a live show Aug. 22, she delivered “Mara’s Song,” which she had written for a cousin’s wedding. Cowell said her performance was “stunning,” and judge Mel B called the singer a miracle worker.
I spoke with her in an email interview.
Question: What was the high point for you in the latest round?
Answer: Seeing the entire audience giving me deaf applause was one of the coolest experiences of my life
Q: Mel B described you as a miracle worker. How do you see your performance?
A: To sing without sound I’m mentally working really hard, so I try to focus on the song itself and the meaning. This song meant a lot to me because Mara is so dear to my heart. I’m just happy I’m having the opportunity to tell stories that are significant to me
Q: How would you describe the public’s response to “Mara’s Song”?
A: Generally, people have been very positive about that song. I’ve been getting requests to sing it, especially from people at weddings and other special events.
Q: Are we likely to hear more original music from you?
A: Of course! I wouldn’t want it any other way. This next round I’m singing another original song but not playing the ukulele. Instead, I’ll be able to sign ASL [American Sign Language] while singing.
Q: You’ve displayed incredible composure in a pressure-filled forum. What’s your secret?
A: I have faced and gone through my biggest fear, which was losing my hearing, so what’s the worst that can happen? They don’t like my voice or the song? I can survive that.
Q: What’s your reaction to the taped packages before your performances?
A: I want to focus on the positive. I don’t see myself as a sob story. In fact, quite the opposite. And, it’s a little strange seeing yourself on TV.
Q: Do you have any message for your fans in Central Florida?
A: I really miss being home so I’m really thankful for everyone reaching out. It makes me feel like, in some ways, I’m there with you and you are here with me at the same time. Thank you for encouraging me every step of the way.
Q: What has “America’s Got Talent” done for your career so far?
A: It’s opened a world of possibilities for me, and I’m thrilled to dive in! Right now I’m focused on the semifinals Sept. 5. I’ll focus on everything else after this is over.