During his audition for the reality talent competition America's Got Talent (AGT), Filipino vocalist Roland Abante impressed the judges and audience. If you are one of those whose jaw dropped open with his performance and want to know more about him, here are four facts about him!
He's From the Philippines -- and a Farmer
Abante explained to the judges in the episode aired on June 14 that he made a livelihood in the province of Cebu by fishing in the morning and working as a motorcycle ride-sharer and courier in the afternoon.
On Tuesday night's (June 13) episode of America's Got Talent, the Filipino fisherman revealed that singing was a talent he just recently acquired Abante explained through an interpreter that since he was busy catching fish and working other jobs to make ends meet, karaoke is the extent of his stage activity back home.
Being on AGT is a Lifelong Dream
He also became emotive as he explained that being on the AGT stage was his lifelong ambition.Abante supported himself and wowed the hell out of everyone in the room, despite the AGT stage's impossibly high standards. According to the increasing number of views for his performance videos on YouTube, he is gaining worldwide popularity. When asked why he decided to compete in the 18th season of America's Got Talent, he cried out that being there is his greatest wish.
Abante proceeded to impress the judges, the audience, and even the presenter, Terry Crews, with his rendition of Michael Bolton's "When A Man Loves a Woman."
Simon Cowell, a judge and musician, observed that Abante appeared apprehensive before the audition, but he enjoyed Abante's performance.
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With the standing ovation and the judges' praise, Abante received all four "yes" ballots to advance in the competition.
He Already Competed in Another Great Singing Contest
Abante stated that he primarily sang karaoke, but he previously competed in the "Tawag ng Tanghalan" segment of It's Showtime in February 2017 and April 2018. Abante was discovered in 2014 after a video of him performing Michael Bolton's cover of "To Love Somebody" went viral on social media.
Since then, he has performed on the late-night talk program Gandang Gabi, Vice!, the Sunday variety show ASAP with Journey's Arnel Pineda, and in a live session on the Wish 107.5 Bus.
Roland Abante Wife, Son
Roland Abante's marriage to Sethland Abante has brought him happiness and companionship. Together, they have fostered a strong connection and a loving family. The couple is blessed with a son named Grake, who possesses a natural aptitude for singing like his father. Grake has followed in the footsteps of his father and developed into a remarkable singer in his own right.
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