Who is Avery Dixon on AGT 2022?
AVERY Dixon has become a fan favourite after playing his heart out on America's Got Talent 2022.
So who exactly is the young saxophonist who has impressed millions? Here's everything you need to know.
Who is saxophonist Avery Dixon?
Avery Dixon is a saxophonist who appeared on season 17 of America's Got Talent.
The 21-year-old explained that he first picked up the saxophone as a way of coping with relentless bullying in elementary school.
He revealed he was nicknamed "Hammerhead" because of "these knots on my head because I'm premature".
Avery explained that as a result he was in a "dark place" and "wanted to commit suicide".
He added: "When you’re in that mindset, the only thing you wanna do is quit…
"That’s when I started actually learning how to play.”
He earnt the first Golden Buzzer of the season after host Terry Crews sent him through to the live finals.
Which song did Avery Dixon play on AGT?
Avery wowed the crowd with his performance of the Stevie Wonder classic, Higher Ground.
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Avery said in an emotional speech before he took the stage: "This time the bullies won't win."
And the young star got a standing ovation for his shining jazz performance in the semi-finals on August 9, 2022.
Avery said if he won AGT that he'd want to give his mom and brother "a space where we can actually live as loud as we want to be because I can't exactly practice where I live now".
The two acts who will move on to the final show will be announced on live semi-final show on NBC on Wednesday, August 10.
What did the judges say about Avery Dixon?
Judge Simon Cowell did not hold back with his high praise and made a "promise" to the young star.
He started : “Since the first time we met you to now, something’s changed."
Cowell then made a shocking comparison to American Idol alumni Carrie Underwood: “I’m gonna predict something, which is the same thing I said to Carrie Underwood years ago on another show.
“You’re gonna be a superstar. I promise you, Avery. I actually believe it’s going to happen, because this was so different.
"You were great the first time, but this was incredible.
"Your confidence and your talent, everything is brilliant. I’m so happy for you.”
Howie Mandel, 66, added: You are a superstar. I love you and America loves you."
During the first round, the judges were similarly full of praise for Avery's soulful performance.
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Heidi Klum said: "I mean, can I tell you, Avery, if Howie Mandel gets up to dance, that means you're really good, because he never dances."
And Sofia Vergara could not hold back the tears after golden confetti fell on to the stage, saying: "I was crying, and I never cry."