Sasha Mednikova
music news 25 JUN 2025  12

9-Year-Old Rap Prodigy King Moore Wows Judges with Electric AGT Audition

In AGT, a nine-year-old rapper named King captivated and stunned us, because watching his act, we honestly wondered, "What the hell did we just see?” Moore had an ego, rhythm, and showmanship that you can only dream of having as a very young artist. That energy wasn't going anywhere. There was something raw, almost savage about his confidence. From the moment he said his welcome, introduced himself, and said he wanted to be a world entertainer with his TV show, we were already cheering for him before he had even started. Oh, he wanted to go on a cruise with his family too, using the prize money; I liked this humble yet ambitious goal.



"Pen Game" Brings the House Down

His self-produced song "Pen Game" - written when he was only six - showed more than talent; it showed genuine passion and refinement. However, what made his performance stand out was his ability to entertain the audience. While the audience was already on their feet, Moore effortlessly delivered every word remarkably clean and confidently. The judges swayed to the music, clapped to the beat, and finally gave him a very well-deserved standing ovation. Mel B. complimented his performance by stating he had swag and rhythm; Sofia Vergara called him a "future star", and Simon Cowell also did not hold back and referred to him by stating that it was "brilliant." But more importantly, all four judges were unanimous in giving Moore a "yes," which was enough to get him through to the next round, as his dad was moved to tears while watching backstage.

A Night of Diverse Talent but One Clear Standout

While the episode had some impressive performances, Moore’s act was the standout act. For example, Stardust, the aerial roller-skaters, earned Sofia’s prized Golden Buzzer with a performance that had all the fireworks and fluidity one expects from the genre. Similarly, Bill Taylor, a Kentucky truck driver, and his band, The Appalachian Heathens, performed a soulful rendition of “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” and left the panel emotional. However, nothing created the viral fantastical moment like Moore’s act. Even magician Alain Simonov, who was very good and the emotional backbone of a family band, the Benn Family Band, was incredible and added gravitas and heart to a great night of entertainment.

Rising Star Shines Bright Beyond the Stage

Despite who else was there to see, Moore’s debut spawned sensational waves that spread far beyond the AGT stage. The social media in the following hours and days lit up with supportive buzz for the pint-sized rapper, as many were already listing him as a favorite. On the downside of the episode, it demonstrated just how vast AGT's talent pool can be, from comedic acts to magic acts to touching family tributes. But Moore’s visceral truth-telling and undeniable star potential occupied a more distinct space. As Moore moves on to the next round, all eyes are on him and what he will do next. America's Got Talent airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC and is available for next-day streaming via Peacock.