13-year-old Chase Varnes traded dirt roads for bright lights when he stepped off the farm and onto the America’s Got Talent stage. He bravely kicked things off with an original song — but in true Simon Cowell fashion, the music mogul hit the brakes mid-performance. 😱

It looked like Chase’s big moment might be over… until he launched into “Life Goes On” by Ed Sheeran and Luke Combs — and everything changed. His second chance turned into a show-stopping moment that had the crowd roaring and the judges rethinking everything.

From almost shut down to full-blown star — Chase just proved he’s got more than country roots. He’s got heart, grit, and serious talent.