When 15-year-old James Smith stepped onto the Britain’s Got Talent stage in 2014, no one expected what would happen next. With nothing but his guitar and a calm confidence, James delivered a soulful, stripped-down version of “Feeling Good”, the 1965 classic made famous by Nina Simone.
His performance was simple but electric — raw, emotional, and pure. Within seconds, the judges and audience were captivated. By the end, everyone in the theater was smiling and cheering as Simon Cowell called him “a little star.”
The song “Feeling Good” was originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the 1964 musical The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd. Over the years, it’s been covered by legends like Nina Simone and Michael Bublé.
But James Smith gave it something new — a youthful acoustic twist that made the song feel fresh again. His smooth voice and emotional phrasing transformed the classic into something uniquely his own. It wasn’t just another cover; it was a reimagining that showed real artistry.
The Judges’ Reaction Says It All
As he sang, the entire room seemed to go quiet — just his voice, his guitar, and the emotion behind every note. The judges were clearly impressed.
After he finished, David Walliams praised his tone and control, while Simon Cowell said he saw “something special.”
James walked away with four yeses, earning a spot in the next round and a standing ovation from the audience.
What Came After Britain’s Got Talent
Although James didn’t win the competition, his audition became one of the standout moments of the season. The video has since been watched millions of times online, and many fans still revisit it as one of the show’s most genuine performances.
Following his BGT journey, James continued pursuing music full-time. He released original songs like “Little Love”, “Tell Me That You Love Me”, and “T-Shirts”, gaining recognition for his heartfelt lyrics and soulful sound. His music now reflects a mature pop style with touches of soul and acoustic influence — a true evolution from his teenage audition days.
A Voice That Feels Real
James Smith’s performance reminded everyone why Britain’s Got Talent exists: to uncover real artists with heart and originality. His version of “Feeling Good” wasn’t about vocal fireworks — it was about connection.
Today, James continues to write, perform, and inspire, proving that one unforgettable moment on stage can truly launch a career.