Babatunde Akinboboye, a sharply dressed 40-year-old singer, flew all the way from Los Angeles to the Britain’s Got Talent (BGT) stage with a mission to prove his talent on the biggest platform in the world. With his impeccable presentation and confidence, the judges were prepared for a sophisticated vocal display.
However, Babatunde was not there to deliver a standard audition; he was there to introduce the world to his groundbreaking hybrid genre, taking the show in a direction no one could have anticipated.
His performance began traditionally enough, showcasing a beautiful and powerful operatic tenor voice. Then, without warning, the entire track shifted tempo and style, and Babatunde began to flow into a hip-hop delivery. This bold fusion, which the judges eventually dubbed “Hiphopera,” saw Babatunde deftly trading his soaring aria for complex, rhythmic rap verses.
The juxtaposition of the classic high-art operatic structure with the modern, street-smart energy of hip-hop was completely unique, leaving the judges in a state of delighted bewilderment.
The panel was divided but thrilled by the innovation. Alesha Dixon loved the concept of making classical music “accessible” and “cool,” calling the idea “brilliant.” While Simon Cowell admitted he didn’t enjoy the specific songs chosen, he emphasized the “great idea” and the massive potential for the act. Ultimately, the uniqueness and sheer originality of Babatunde’s “Hiphopera” proved irresistible. Praised for being a “breath of fresh air” and for showcasing something truly unique, he secured a unanimous four “yeses,” sending his innovative act through to the next round.
