‘America’s Got Talent’ Season 11 winner is Grace VanderWaal

Grace VanderWaal can indeed become the next Taylor Swift after the 12-year-old singer-songwriter from New York won the title as “America’s Got Talent” season 11 winner.

The youngest finalist at 12, VanderWaal vested nine other finalist in competing for the US$1 million (AU$1.3 million) top prize and the title that would propel her career in the entertainment industry.

Before the AGT voting results were announced Wednesday night, VanderWaal performed “Landslide” with Stevie Nicks live at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. She also sang her original composition “I Don’t Know My Name,” which won for her Howie Mandel’s Golden Buzzer during the audition. Impressed by VanderWaal’s act, AGT judge Simon Cowell said that the Ukulele-playing musician could become “the next Taylor Swift.”

Throughout the competition, VanderWaal only performed her original compositions. She sang “Clay” during the AGT finale night Tuesday, “Light The Sky” for the semifinals, and “Beautiful Thing” during the quarterfinals.

AGT season 11 top 5

Meanwhile, mentalist Austrian couple Thommy Ten and Amelie Van Tass of The Clairvoyants ranked second for their superb mind-reading skills that impressed AGT judges and audience.

Philadelphia Eagles long snapper and part-time magician Jon Dorenbos followed on the top third spot.

Finally, California’s Brian Justin Crum placed fourth while New York’s Sal Valentinetti finished fifth.

As winner of “America’s Got Talent” season 11, VanderWaal will perform at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino on Oct. 27 to 29.