Photo: Instagram
He almost won it all.
By Dominique McIntee — Written on Oct 09, 2019
Season 14 of America’s Got Talent just came to a close, and it was quite the adventure to say the least. The pool of talent has been diverse and impressive, with shocking eliminations and memorable performances all leading up to this very point. Perhaps, the most memorable of all is Benicio Bryant: a finalist who has been the season’s frontrunner and fan favorite from the getgo.
It’s no secret that Benicio Bryant has already won the hearts of viewers and judges with his raw talent, original songs and distinct voice. Still, many of us were left wondering, is it enough for him to reign as champion? It wasn't but he's still worth taking a look at — and a listen to! More importantly, who is Benicio Bryant (aside from the fact that he’s a gifted musician)? Read on to learn all the important details!
1. Benicio Bryant was born in Maple Valley, Washington, and his family is super tight-knit.
Throughout his rollercoaster ride to stardom, Bryant has had steadfast support from his family: his parents, Marlo and Jeremy Bryant — who were high school sweethearts — and his adorable little sister, Ryder. The entire Bryant crew has made headlines from the sidelines, revealing the highs and lows of Benicio’s journey.
2. He garnered national attention after becoming the only American to compete on The Voice Kids in Germany.
The show’s producers stumbled upon Bryant’s YouTube channel, and were impressed with his raw talent at such a young age. This prompted an audition invitation, and the rest is history. Though Bryant placed second, he has since transformed into a music sensation seemingly overnight.
3. He has performed alongside musical legend, Brandi Carlile.
For some context, Brandi Carlile is a three-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and producer who so happens to also be a Washington native. Bryant and Carlile initially teamed up to perform “The Joke” at Tacoma High School as part of a fundraiser. Then, the duo made an appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, performing the song once more.
4. He has been hailed for performing original songs on this season of America’s Got Talent.
Bryant received major praise after performing his own material during the quarterfinals and semi-finals: a major creative risk that has certainly paid off. The two songs in particular, “Who I Am” and “Fall Apart” wowed not just the audience, but more importantly the judges, leaving even Simon Cowell impressed.
5. His hometown fans and peers gathered to watch his final performance at Tahoma High School.
Bryant’s support system doesn’t end with his family. While the Bryant crew was stationed in Los Angeles, their community banded together to view his final performance this past Tuesday night. The experience has been surreal and life-changing, according to Benicio’s father, Jeremy Bryant, who stated in a recent interview, "Everyone is so excited. It’s hard to put into words. We went to get milkshakes at Shake Shack Monday night, and Benicio couldn't even get in the shop, because people were screaming and taking pictures.”
6. He wasn't planning on winning
“I honestly really wasn’t planning on winning,” Bryant said to the Seattle Times. “There’s so many amazing people in this competition. I was like, I’m going in this competition to share my music with the world. That’s what I wanted in general, and I think I did that. So I feel like I’ve won either way.”
7. What’s next for Bryant?
Bryant’s career has no signs of slowing down. He’s already been compared to industry greats, including Harry Styles and Troye Sivan; not to mention, in 2018, he released his debut single titled “My Love,” which is available on iTunes. Win or lose, Bryant will have no issues with success in the future.
Dominique is an unapologetic Scorpio, reality TV-loving heathen, and twentysomething, NYC-based writer with a moderately interesting life, knack for editing, and passion for content creation. Though no one asked, all opinions and words are her own and authentic — topics ranging from fashion and food, to beauty, lifestyle, music and everything in between.