RL Bell, a 50-year-old massage therapist and former bodybuilder from Houston, Texas, walked onto the America’s Got Talent stage with a striking appearance and immense confidence. He immediately captured the attention of the female judges by discussing his fitness routine and his signature long hair. Bell humorously noted that his massage clients often ask him to sing during their sessions, but he usually plays a CD of his own music so he can focus on his work. His charismatic personality set high expectations for a “total package” performance intended specifically “for the ladies.”
As soon as he began singing the soul classic “Me and Mrs. Jones,” Bell delivered a performance filled with dramatic Showmanship. His deep, smooth R&B vocals were paired with bold stage moves, including flexing his muscles and eventually removing his hat and shirt. While the audience and some of the judges were clearly entertained by his high notes and theatrical energy, the panel was split on his approach. Mel B and Heidi Klum appreciated the “magical” and entertaining nature of the act, but the male judges were more critical of his over-the-top presentation.
The feedback session was particularly intense, as Simon Cowell described the performance as “too corny,” comparing it to a bag of sugar and suggesting that Bell’s “striptease” antics distracted from his genuine vocal talent. Howie Mandel echoed this sentiment, joking that Bell seemed like a mix of Rick James and Hulk Hogan. Despite a “No” from Howie, Mel B and Heidi gave him enthusiastic “Yes” votes. Ultimately, Simon decided to take a chance on Bell’s potential, providing the final “Yes” needed to send him through to the next round, much to the delight of his newfound fans.
