Al Calderon, a charismatic 19-year-old from Long Island, New York, stepped onto the The X Factor USA stage in 2013 with a humble background but massive dreams. Working as a host in a restaurant, Al had become the “designated happy birthday singer,” though he admitted he was desperate to leave that job behind and share his talent on a much larger scale. Supported by his proud parents, he emphasized that family is his entire world. His youthful energy and striking good looks immediately caught the attention of the judges, particularly Kelly Rowland and Demi Lovato, who were charmed by his presence before he even sang a note.
For his audition, Al chose the soulful classic “Sara Smile” by Hall & Oates. As he began to sing, he displayed a smooth, soulful vocal quality that resonated throughout the arena. While Simon Cowell later pointed out some minor “tuning issues” likely caused by nerves and inexperience, Al’s natural charisma and vocal potential were undeniable. He managed to connect with the audience effectively, proving that he possessed the “it factor” necessary for the music business. By the end of his performance, it was clear that his days of singing “Happy Birthday” at a restaurant were quickly coming to an end.
The feedback from the panel was overwhelmingly positive, with the judges praising his star quality and look. Demi Lovato predicted that he wouldn’t be working at the restaurant much longer, while Simon Cowell noted that the industry was currently waiting for someone with Al’s specific combination of talent and charisma. Even with the minor vocal critiques, the judges were unanimous in their decision, granting him four enthusiastic “Yes” votes. Al left the stage overwhelmed with emotion, ready to take the next big step toward becoming a professional artist.
