Southeast students unite behind Boyd during performance

Southeast Missourian

Southeast Missouri State University students gathered at the University Center to watch "America's Got Talent" on Tuesday night to see Southeast alumnus Neal Boyd perform.

As he did on the first episode of the "America's Got Talent" season, Boyd, a Sikeston, Mo., native, made a big impression with the judges and live audience on the first episode of the show's live semifinals.

Boyd was one of 10 contestants to perform live Tuesday night on the NBC show -- the first live episode of the season. Tonight five of those contestants will be cut, determined by public voting via computer and phone.

Boyd's act came at the end of the show. The tenor sang the song "Somewhere," from the musical "West Side Story," but in the style of an aria. The "America's Got Talent" judges gushed over the performance.

Judge Piers Morgan said it was "incredible. You have become the Michael Phelps of the competition."

Judge Sharon Osbourne told Boyd, "I want to give you a great big hug."

The live audience in Los Angeles gave the tenor a standing ovation. Tonight's show begins at 7 p.m. on NBC.

Neal Boyd watch party

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