In what stands out as one of the most memorable moments from Season 12 of America’s Got Talent, a chicken took center stage, captivating the audience with its keyboard skills.
During Episode 1, which was held in front of a live audience in May 2017, contestants Seiree Arii and Shannon Myers surprised everyone by bringing an unexpected partner onto the stage – a brown chicken securely nestled in a towel and held against Shannon’s chest. Astonishing the judges and the audience alike, the duo claimed that their intelligent chicken, named Jokgu, would perform “America Is Beautiful” on a keyboard. This melodic tribute was dedicated to America’s Purple Mountain Majesties, particularly the Pikes Peak in Colorado.
However, when Jokgu was placed in front of the miniature keyboard and the music started playing, nothing happened. Instead of hitting the keys, the chicken went about its usual activities, turning around and pecking at its feathers. The judges looked on in bewilderment as the owners tried unsuccessfully to coax the chicken into playing. It seemed like a moment of disappointment.
Just when all hope seemed lost, the chicken composed itself and began pecking at the keys. Gradually, note by note, Jokgu played the ivories in sync with the background music, turning its head from side to side without missing a key until the song concluded.
The audience and judges were left in awe, and all four judges – Howie Mandel, Mel B, Heidi Klum, and Simon Cowell – unanimously voted “Yes,” sending Jokgu to the Judge Cuts. Unfortunately, in the subsequent qualifying round, Jokgu, accompanied by another chicken named Aichan, refused to play the pianos and was eliminated from the competition.
Admittedly, Jokgu’s keyboard skills were not comparable to those of human pianists, as it followed a red light next to each key. Nevertheless, the performance was impressive and entertaining enough to earn a spot on America’s Got Talent.
After witnessing a chicken’s keyboard prowess, there’s no more room for procrastination – it’s time to start learning! And for the record, the chicken played with neither the left hen nor the right hen. By the way, did I mention I was enjoying KFC while watching this episode of America’s Got Talent?
