Grace Vanderwaal, the 12-year-old pint-sized indie vocal powerhouse stole hearts and the show when she performed for the first time on the America's Got Talent stage during its season 11 run.
The recording of her standing ovation performance blew up the internet barely a day later, skyrocketing Vanderwaal's name to viral level, inciting Simon Cowell and new fans alike to call her "the next Taylor Swift". Now, she's won America's Got Talent, has just released an EP, and is set to perform during the iconic 90th anniversary Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade celebration. This golden buzzer girl is just getting started. If her prodigy songwriting hasn't surprised you enough, check out the 10 facts below:
1. She taught herself how to play the ukulele...
She was inspired to play after seeing Twenty One Pilots' cover of "Can't Help Falling in Love", and began to teach herself watching YouTube videos. Her penchant for songwriting began at age 10.
2 ...which she saved up for and bought herself.
She now has a total of five in her collection, but her 11th birthday funds went toward purchasing the first uke. And what an investment it was.
3. She also plays saxophone. Aaand the piano.
Brb just feeling like I haven't done anything with my life.
4. Her friend's didn't know about her talent.
And they didn't, until at school the day after her golden buzzer audition aired!
5. She started performing at open mic nights.
America's Got Talent was by far, the biggest crowd yet, but Vanderwaal only started performing in front of audiences a year ago. Check out this rendition of her performing Sia's "Breathe Me" an an open mic.
6. She loves animals.
Two dogs complete the Vanderwaal family.
7. A lot of celebrities have noticed her- including Justin Bieber, Lucy Hale, & Reese Witherspoon
Vanderwaal could not believe that singer/actress Lucy Hale knew her name.
8. She's lactose intolerant
And she misses ice-cream. A lot. (Who wouldn't?)
9. She's a Capricorn!
Her birthday is January 15th, making this gal a proud rep of #TeamCap.
10. T. Swift sent her flowers
Watch the video of her adorable freak-out here.