In 1982, young Archie Williams was arrested and put into jail for crimes he did not commit. 36 years later, he was acquitted and got back his freedom. More than half of his life was taken away by the injustice done to him, but his love for singing kept his spirit alive and no prison could take away his passion in him.
When Archie came on to AGT Season 15, his audition rocked the entire show. His story and his voice broke the internet, winning the hearts of the judges and audience and he made it to the top 10 list of the season.
Although he did not win, Williams said he was satisfied and it felt alright with him. Since then, he has been taking part in activities of ‘Project Innocence’ that works for the cause of people who had been wrongly incarcerated and been in similar situations like him.
For his performance on his return to AGT-All Stars, Williams chose to sing the song “Ain’t no sunshine” by Bill Withers. “When I was 12 years old I met the love of my life, her name is music. They try to take away my life but I wouldn’t let them take away my song”, he said, before he began singing.
His heartfelt soulful performance received a standing ovation from the crowd and the judges, moving their hearts and soul.
Judge Heidi said, “You always have a special spot in my heart thank you and you touch my heart every time when you are on that stage that voice can’t hide anywhere because it’s just you, it’s honest, it’s raw, it’s Archie and I’m so happy that you’re here on that stage today you are true All-Star.”
