Comparing Hadwin to a young Joplin, Mandel recalled the story of how legendary music producer Clive Davis discovered Joplin and immediately signed her to his label.
Channeling her inner Janis Joplin, the young singer delivered a memorable performance that left a huge impression on the judges, especially Simon Cowell.
The only thing I can do for you young lady is give you,” Mandel explained before hitting the Golden Buzzer.
Hadwin shocked the judges (and the audience) with her surprisingly powerful take on Otis Redding’s “Hard to Handle” on Tuesday night.