Early Release: Cole Swensen Is Moved To Tears After Singing “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay

The video features an inspiring audition by Cole Swensen, a 23-year-old from Los Angeles, who takes the stage with a deeply personal reason for pursuing his music. He shares with the judges that he has been performing at smaller venues for four years and that his ultimate dream is to perform on larger stages. However, his true motivation comes from honoring his mother, Judy, who had to give up her own music career.

In a poignant and unique twist, Cole reveals that to honor his mother’s sacrifice, he has invited her to join him on stage to play with him during his audition. This gesture transforms the moment from a solo performance into a heartfelt collaboration. This decision not only shows his love and appreciation for his mother but also his courage to deviate from the traditional audition format and make the moment truly special.

Together, Cole and his mother perform Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida.” Cole’s voice is both distinctive and controlled, and he delivers a rendition that is completely his own. The harmony between his vocals and his mother’s accompaniment creates a beautiful and moving performance. The emotional depth is palpable, and the sheer love between the two is evident in every note, capturing the hearts of the judges and the audience.

After the performance, the judges are visibly moved. One judge praises his voice, noting that he made the iconic song his own. Another judge becomes emotional, expressing how beautiful it was to witness the love and connection between Cole and his mother on stage. This feedback highlights that their performance was not just about the music but about the powerful story and bond behind it.

A third judge comments that while Cole’s performance would have been good on his own, the addition of his mother made it a “great audition.” This judge also praises Cole for being “very cool” by not following the crowd and instead doing what he truly wanted to do. This particular feedback acknowledges Cole’s authenticity and originality, which are qualities that often lead to success in the music industry.

In the end, Cole receives four “yes” votes from the judges, a unanimous decision that allows him to advance in the competition. His audition serves as a powerful reminder that the best performances are often those that come from the heart and are driven by a personal and meaningful story. Cole’s journey begins with this memorable audition, bringing him one step closer to his dream and honoring the person who inspired him.