A Star Is Born on ‘America’s Got Talent’
On June 24, 2025, a pint-sized powerhouse took the stage of America’s Got Talent (AGT) Season 20 and left the audience and judges in awe. Nine-year-old rapper King Moore delivered an electrifying performance of his original track “Pen Game,” earning a standing ovation, four yeses from the judges, and a tidal wave of social media buzz. With confidence far beyond his years and a charisma that lit up the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, King Moore proved he’s a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment world. In this blog post, we’ll dive into King’s unforgettable AGT performance, explore his remarkable journey, and look at what’s next for this young superstar.
King Moore’s Show-Stopping AGT Performance
King Moore’s America’s Got Talent audition, aired during Season 20, Episode 5, was nothing short of spectacular. The third-grader from California commanded the stage with his original rap song “Pen Game,” which he wrote at the tender age of six. Before launching into his performance, King charmed the judges—Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, and Mel B—with his big dreams: starring in movies, touring the world, and hosting his own TV show. If he wins the $1 million prize, he declared, he’d treat his family to a cruise.
With the audience on their feet at his request, King delivered rapid-fire verses with impeccable clarity and infectious energy. His performance was a masterclass in stage presence, blending youthful exuberance with professional polish. The judges were visibly impressed, dancing in their chairs and smiling throughout. When the music stopped, the crowd erupted, and the judges gave King a standing ovation, unanimously advancing him to the next round. Posts on X captured the excitement, with fans calling his performance “awesome” and his original song “amazing.”
Who Is King Moore?
King Moore, born in Tampa, Florida, and now residing in California, has been dreaming of stardom since he was three years old. According to his parents, Verlin and Ivette Moore, King declared at that young age his ambition to become an actor, singer, rapper, model, and dancer. Despite initial hesitation from his father, who wanted to ensure King’s commitment, the family rallied behind his passion by age five, setting him on a path to greatness.
King’s resume is already boasts impressive achievements, including:
- Film and TV Roles: Small parts in Cora Bora, The Wild Robot, and CoComelon (as Cody).
- Commercials: National campaigns for major brands like AT&T and Toyota.
- Talk Show Appearances: Two appearances on The Tamron Hall Show (ABC) and one on The Portia Bruner Show (Fox).
- Touring: Sharing stages with stars like That Girl Lay Lay, Kenan Thompson, Young Dylan, and Heiress Harris.
- Notable Events: Co-hosting the 2025 Honda Battle of the Bands with Nick Cannon and speaking at the White House as the youngest child entertainer invited under the Biden-Harris administration, where he addressed gun violence prevention, stating, “Kids make up 50% of the population, but we’re 100% of the future.”
King’s manager, two-time Grammy-winning music publisher Tony Edwards, has played a key role in his rise, guiding him toward opportunities like his 2024 single “ABC,” which aimed to make him the youngest male rapper to chart on Billboard.
The Making of ‘Pen Game’
King Moore’s AGT performance of “Pen Game” was a song he crafted at age three, showcasing his precocious talent. The track’s fast-paced, clever lyrics reflect his ambition and positivity, themes that resonate in his music. King’s ability to write age-appropriate lyrics with universal appeal sets him apart in the hip-hop world, drawing influences from icons like The Jackson 5 while forging a fresh sound.
His performance preparation was meticulous, supported by his parents and manager. King’s natural stage presence, honed through tours and high-profile events, shone through on AGT, making “Pen Game” a viral moment. The song’s success on the show has sparked interest in its potential release, with fans eager to stream it.
Why King Moore’s Performance Resonated
Several factors made King Moore’s AGT audition a standout:
- Youthful Charisma: At just nine, King’s confidence and energy captivated the audience, proving talent knows no age.
- Originality: Performing an original song written at six showcased his creative genius and authenticity.
- Inspirational Story: King’s journey from a toddler with a dream to a national stage resonated with viewers, especially his commitment to family and community.
- Cultural Impact: As a young Black artist, King’s positive message and representation in hip-hop inspire a new generation.
The judges’ reactions underscored his impact. Simon Cowell, known for his tough critiques, praised King’s precocious talent, while Howie Mandel called him a “star in the making.” Social media echoed this sentiment, with Billboard tweeting, “9-Year-Old Rapper King Moore Brings Down the House on ‘America’s Got Talent’.”
The Broader Context of AGT Season 20
King Moore’s performance was a highlight of AGT’s fifth audition episode, which featured a diverse array of talent. Other notable acts included magician Alain Simonov’s sleight-of-hand routine, the Benn Family Band’s emotional cover of Lauren Daigle’s “Rescue,” and comedian Shuler King’s hilarious set about his mortician day job. However, King’s act stole the spotlight, generating the most social media buzz and media coverage.
AGT Season 20, which premiered on May 27, 2025, marks the show’s milestone 20th season, hosted by Terry Crews with judges Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, and returning judge Mel B. The season has been notable for its high-energy performances and emotional stories, with King Moore embodying both.
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What’s Next for King Moore?
With his AGT audition propelling him into the national spotlight, King Moore’s future looks brighter than ever. Advancing to the next round of the competition, he’ll face stiffer challenges but has the talent and fan support to go far. Fans are also eagerly awaiting updates on his music, with “Pen Game” poised for a potential release given its viral success.
King’s long-term goals include starring in films, launching a TV show, and continuing his music career. His White House appearance and advocacy work suggest he’ll also use his platform for social good. As he told AGT judges, his dream is to inspire others, and he’s already doing just that.
Why King Moore Matters
King Moore’s AGT performance is more than a viral moment; it’s a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and family support. His story resonates with aspiring artists, young and old, showing that talent and determination can open doors. As a young Black rapper, King also represents a positive force in hip-hop, creating music that uplifts and inspires.
For America’s Got Talent, King’s audition reinforces the show’s mission to discover extraordinary talent from unexpected places. His success highlights the platform’s ability to launch careers, much like it did for past stars like Grace VanderWaal and Kodi Lee.
A Young King’s Reign Begins
Nine-year-old King Moore has taken America’s Got Talent by storm, proving that big talent comes in small packages. His performance of “Pen Game” was a defining moment, showcasing his skill, charisma, and heart. As he continues his AGT journey and builds his career, King is poised to become a household name, inspiring countless others along the way.
Follow King Moore’s journey on America’s Got Talent, airing Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC and streaming on Peacock. Share your thoughts in the comments—did King’s performance blow you away? Let us know!
