A Young Girl with a Frizzy Bob Stuns Simon with Her Mysterious Response, Its a Surprise
You won’t believe the powerhouse voice that emerges from 13-year-old Rachel Crow as she performs Beyoncé’s “If I Were A Boy” on The X Factor USA. With her frizzy hair, shy demeanor, and infectious smile, Rachel might not have looked like a typical diva, but the moment she opened her mouth, the entire room was left in awe. Her voice, rich and soulful, defied her young age and petite frame, delivering a performance that felt both polished and deeply emotional.
Before stepping onto the stage, Rachel admitted she was nervous, but you’d never guess it from her commanding presence. She teased Simon Cowell with a cheeky response when asked about her song choice: “It’s a surprise.” And what a surprise it was. Rachel’s rendition of Beyoncé’s hit was nothing short of extraordinary—her vocal control, emotional depth, and ability to hit every note flawlessly had the audience and judges spellbound.
Her performance became an instant viral sensation, racking up over 40 million views and securing its place as one of the most iconic moments in The X Factor USA history. Fans couldn’t stop praising her maturity and artistry, with comments like, “Goosebumps every time I hear her sing,” and, “She conveys so much emotion—you can feel every word, even if she’s never experienced the heartbreak behind the song.”
This wasn’t Rachel’s first standout moment on the show. During her audition, she wowed the judges with a high-energy performance of Duffy’s “Mercy,” showcasing the same natural talent and charisma that made her an early favorite. Though Rachel was eliminated in the quarterfinals after an intense sing-off, her journey was far from over. Within a year, she had signed a record deal with Columbia Records, released an EP that landed in the top 20 of the US Heat chart, and began her acting career with Nickelodeon, appearing on popular shows like Fred: The Show and Big Time Rush.
Since her time on The X Factor, Rachel has continued to shine, maturing as both a singer and an entertainer. Her soulful voice and undeniable star power have only grown stronger with time. If you haven’t seen her legendary performance of “If I Were A Boy,” you’re missing out on one of the most memorable moments in X Factor history.