Al Calderon was 19 and from Long Island, New York, when he auditioned for The X Factor USA. At his restaurant job, he worked as a host and the designated “Happy Birthday” singer, but he made it clear he did not want to stay there forever.
With his proud dad, a city sanitation worker, cheering backstage, Al chose Hall and Oates’ “Sara Smile.” His smooth, soulful tone gave the classic plenty of charm, and the audience was quickly on his side. 🎶
One judge joked that she wished she were younger so he could take her out, and another told him she liked everything about him. Simon noticed some tuning issues but put them down to nerves, then said the music business was waiting for someone like him.
Al left the stage almost speechless, promising that his days of singing “Happy Birthday” to restaurant tables were over. ❤️
