Full Breakdown
Mackenzie Sol’s Golden Buzzer Triumph on America’s Got Talent
6/25/2026, 2:12:27 PM
Full-Circle Audition: From Childhood X Factor to AGT Stage
Twenty-five-year-old Mackenzie Sol, a singer from the north of England, returned to Simon Cowell’s judging panel after first meeting the judge at age four during an X Factor audition that was rejected because Sol was below the minimum age of 16. In the June 23 episode of America’s Got Talent (Season 21, Episode 4), Sol performed a slowed-down R&B rendition of Sombr’s “Back to Friends,” a song that later peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in January 2025. His performance moved the studio audience to its feet and brought his family to tears.
Path to the Spotlight: Early Auditions and TikTok Rise
Before AG T, Sol built a following of more than 12 million TikTok users through comedy-music videos. He auditioned for American Idol in 2024 (Season 22), delivering Sam Cooke’s “Bring It On Home To Me” and Black Sabbath’s “Changes,” both receiving unanimous “yes” votes. After a sing-off performance of Labrinth’s “Jealous,” he advanced to the Top 20 but was eliminated before the Top 14. The Idol experience, combined with his online presence, positioned him as a notable contender for AG T.
The Golden Buzzer Moment
During Sol’s AG T audition, judges Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel and Sofía Vergara offered feedback, after which Mel B of the Spice Girls pressed the Golden Buzzer. The buzzer guarantees Sol a spot in the live shows, where public voting will determine his progress. Cowell acknowledged the prior meeting, and Mel B described Sol as “absolutely, extraordinarily fabulous” before activating the buzzer.
Data & Statistics
- TikTok followers: >12 million
- “Back to Friends” Billboard Hot 100 peak: No. 7 (January 2025)
- AG T live-show guarantee: Golden Buzzer advancement
- American Idol placement: Top 20 of Season 22
Official Statements & Responses
Mel B praised Sol’s vocal delivery, labeling him absolutely, extraordinarily fabulous, and used the Golden Buzzer to secure his live-show entry. Simon Cowell noted the reunion, asking “what happened?” after Sol reminded him of their first encounter. The judging panel comprised Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel and Sofía Vergara. The Golden Buzzer advances a contestant to the live-show phase, bypassing subsequent audition rounds.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’ve never had nerves like this,” — Mackenzie Sol, contestant
- “Photo: Trae Patton/NBC "I don’t know why I took 21 years.” — Mackenzie Sol, contestant
- “I really hope he does," Sol added.” — Mackenzie Sol, contestant
- “I think you are absolutely, extraordinarily fabulous. And I’m glad I got to speak first because I’m gonna do this,” — Mel B, judge
What’s Next
Sol’s Golden Buzzer secures his participation in AG T’s live-show round, where public voting will decide his continuation. His extensive TikTok fanbase is expected to mobilize during the voting period, potentially influencing his trajectory in the competition.
