Richard Goodall, a custodian at West Vigo Middle School, earned a Golden Buzzer from Heidi Klum on the season premiere of “America’s Got Talent,” catapulting him directly to the live shows later this summer and making him the talk of the Hoosier State.
“After the show aired, there has been so much support,” Goodall told WTWO-TV. “I cannot answer all of the messages that have come across, like thousands and thousands.”
Goodall’s AGT journey began with a TikTok video showing him singing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” to students at the middle school. The video quickly went viral, amassing millions of views and leading to his audition on the popular talent show. Although his nerves were evident on the show’s grand stage, the music helped calm him.
“When I hear Journey, Foreigner, and Survivor music it centers me, calms me down, and lets me know that I am OK,” he said.
Goodall’s performance left the judges stunned, and Klum ensured he didn’t need a vote to advance by hitting the Golden Buzzer, sending confetti shimmering down on stage.
Back home, those who know Goodall weren’t at all surprised by his second viral moment.
“I knew that was coming,” said Tom Greenberg. “He deserved it. He’s just so good and Journey, I mean you throw him on a Journey song and he’s just the best of the best. He’s just a perfect Journey singer.”
Goodall’s rise from a school custodian to a national sensation highlights the power of social media and the enduring appeal of classic rock. As he prepares for the live shows, the support from his community remains steadfast, with many eagerly anticipating his next performance on America’s Got Talent.
