Kristen Cruz: The Viral TikTok Singer Taking America’s Got Talent Season 17 by Storm
The prestigious stage of America’s Got Talent has, throughout its storied history, introduced the world to countless extraordinary talents. Season 17 is no exception, and among its most captivating discoveries is the phenomenal vocalist, Kristen Cruz. This 19-year-old rising star has already left an indelible mark with her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence. As the competition intensifies, Kristen is poised to return to the AGT stage on September 6th for the high-stakes final qualifiers round. With only three coveted spots remaining for the grand finals, the pressure is immense, but Kristen’s undeniable talent and burgeoning fan base suggest she has every chance of securing one of these highly sought-after positions.
Even before her electrifying audition on AGT, Kristen Cruz was already a well-known name, having cultivated a massive following and a viral presence across social media platforms. Her journey from TikTok sensation to a household name on one of television’s biggest talent shows is a testament to her unique gift and widespread appeal. So, who exactly is Kristen Cruz? She’s not just a singer; she’s a TikTok phenomenon whose captivating covers have garnered tens of millions of views, catching the attention of not only millions of fans but also several prominent celebrities. HollywoodLife has compiled an in-depth look at everything you need to know about this remarkable young artist, from her impressive vocal prowess to her inspiring background and dedicated faith.
1. Kristen Cruz is a Standout Contestant in America’s Got Talent Season 17
Kristen Cruz’s initial audition for America’s Got Talent Season 17 was nothing short of a showstopper, instantly cementing her status as a formidable contender. Stepping onto the world’s most famous talent stage, she delivered a breathtaking rendition of “I See Red” by Everybody Loves An Outlaw. Her performance wasn’t just a song; it was a raw, visceral display of vocal power and emotional depth that left both the judges and the audience mesmerized. All four esteemed judges—Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara—were on their feet, offering a well-deserved standing ovation to the young artist. Simon Cowell, known for his often-critical yet astute commentary, was visibly impressed, calling her performance “unbelievable.” Supermodel Heidi Klum was equally captivated, exclaiming, “I want your voice,” and prophetically adding, “You are a star already in the making.” The sheer impact of her audition is further underscored by its incredible viral success online; Kristen’s audition video has amassed over 10 million views on YouTube and continues to climb, demonstrating her immense global appeal and the widespread anticipation for her next performance.
2. Kristen Achieved Viral Stardom on TikTok Before AGT
Long before gracing the grand stage of America’s Got Talent, Kristen Cruz had already carved out a significant niche for herself as a viral sensation on TikTok. Her unique approach to showcasing her extraordinary vocal talent quickly garnered her immense popularity. Kristen’s TikTok videos are distinguished by her habit of covering popular songs while engaging in everyday, relatable tasks, such as making coffee or doing chores. This authentic and unassuming presentation style allowed her incredible voice to shine through, creating an intimate connection with her audience. Her captivating content has racked up an astonishing 47.5 million views across the platform, and her follower count has surged past 2 million, continuously growing. Among her most viral hits are her soulful cover of “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley, which alone has garnered over 23 million views, and her rendition of George Michael’s timeless classic “Careless Whisper,” boasting over 18 million views. These numbers are not just statistics; they are a testament to the undeniable allure of Kristen’s distinctive vocal quality, proving that her powerful, versatile, and deeply emotional voice truly is one-of-a-kind. Her ability to transform mundane moments into musical masterpieces resonates deeply, setting her apart in the crowded digital landscape and perfectly priming her for national television.
3. Hailing from Fort Worth, Texas: Kristen’s Roots
Kristen Cruz’s journey to national fame began in the heart of Texas. She proudly hails from Fort Worth, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and a vibrant music scene. Growing up in this dynamic environment undoubtedly played a role in shaping her artistic sensibilities and passion for music. Her commitment to honing her craft is evident in her academic pursuits; Kristen is currently enrolled in the prestigious IMMERSION program at Septien Entertainment Group. Septien is a highly regarded music school located in Texas, known for its rigorous training and development of aspiring artists. This intensive program has undoubtedly provided Kristen with invaluable vocal coaching, performance techniques, and industry insights, equipping her with the skills necessary to compete at the highest level. Her decision to travel halfway across the country to participate in America’s Got Talent underscores her profound dedication and ambition to take her musical career to the next significant step. It’s a testament to her drive that she embraced the challenge of moving beyond her local success to pursue her dreams on a national platform, showcasing the courage and conviction behind her talent.
4. Kristen Boasts a Growing List of Celebrity Social Media Followers
Further solidifying her status as a burgeoning star, Kristen Cruz has already captured the attention of numerous celebrities who have become followers on her social media platforms. This level of early endorsement from established figures in entertainment is a powerful indicator of her potential and broad appeal. Among her notable celebrity fans are Ellen Pompeo, the beloved star of “Grey’s Anatomy”; Ariana DeBose, an Academy Award-winning actress and Broadway sensation; and veteran actor David Arquette. The fact that these prominent personalities are actively following Kristen’s journey signifies a genuine recognition of her talent and star quality within the industry. Such high-profile attention not only boosts her credibility but also significantly expands her reach and exposure, drawing even more eyes to her performances. With her captivating presence on America’s Got Talent, it is almost certain that Kristen will amass an even larger and more diverse roster of celebrity admirers, propelling her further into the spotlight and opening doors to exciting future collaborations and opportunities.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Kristen Cruz ✝️ (@kristenncruz)
5. Kristen’s Deep-Seated Dedication to Her Faith
Beyond her captivating vocal talent and burgeoning celebrity, Kristen Cruz’s public persona is profoundly shaped by her strong and unwavering dedication to her faith. She frequently shares videos of herself singing beautiful and heartfelt renditions of Christian music across her Instagram and TikTok platforms. These posts offer her followers a glimpse into a deeply personal and significant aspect of her life, showcasing her versatility as an artist and the spiritual depth that influences her music. In May 2022, Kristen shared a particularly poignant message on social media, articulating the profound impact of her beliefs. “The freedom, joy, and fulfilling love Jesus gives. So beyond grateful,” she wrote on Instagram. This sentiment not only reveals the sincerity of her faith but also provides insight into the source of her inner strength and joy. For Kristen, her faith is clearly not just a private matter but a guiding principle that she openly embraces and shares, connecting with a broader audience who appreciate her authenticity and the spiritual resonance in her music. This dedication adds another layer to her appeal, making her a relatable and inspiring figure for many of her fans.
The Road Ahead: Kristen Cruz’s Impact on the Music World
As Kristen Cruz stands on the precipice of potentially entering the America’s Got Talent Season 17 finals, her journey from a viral TikTok star to a national television sensation is already an inspiring narrative. Her ability to command attention with her powerhouse vocals, whether in a casual kitchen setting or under the bright lights of a televised stage, speaks volumes about her innate talent and charisma. Kristen’s authentic approach, combined with her dedication to both her craft and her faith, has forged a genuine connection with a diverse and rapidly expanding audience. Her story is a modern testament to the power of social media in discovering and amplifying talent, and her success on AGT underscores that raw talent, when paired with hard work and a compelling personality, can truly transcend any platform.
The anticipation for her performance in the final qualifiers is palpable. Should she secure one of the remaining spots, Kristen Cruz is poised to leave an even more indelible mark on the competition and the broader music industry. Her unique voice, undeniable stage presence, and grounded persona suggest a future filled with potential, not just as a singer but as a significant cultural voice. Regardless of the outcome on America’s Got Talent, Kristen Cruz has already proven herself to be a star in the making, and her journey is one that will undoubtedly continue to captivate and inspire for years to come. Keep an eye on this incredible young artist as she continues to forge her path and share her extraordinary gift with the world.