Brody Ray on His Emotional 'America's Got Talent' Audition: 'It Was So Validating for Me'
6/29/2018 by Stephen Daw
For singer Brody Ray, being seen for who he is has always been the goal. Based in Nashville, Ray decided that if he wanted to take control of how he wanted the world to see him, he was going to find a platform to declare his truth proudly.
When Ray appeared on Tuesday night’s (June 26) episode of America’s Got Talent, the judges asked him why he chose to sing a cover of Jordan Smith’s “Stand in the Light,” allowing Ray to live in his truth. “It kind of applies to my life, to overcoming struggles and battles,” he said. “I actually was born female. I’m transgender.”
What followed was a stunning rendition of “Stand in the Light” that got Ray a standing ovation from the crowd, had Mel B in tears, and got everyone on the judges panel to offer him a yes vote, moving him forward in the competition.
Billboard caught up with Brody after his audition, and he talked about making it through to the next round, his transition process and finding a community to call home in Nashville.
