Drake Milligan, a 23-year-old singer from Fort Worth, Texas, is being hailed as “the new Elvis of country” by America’s Got Talent judge Howie Mandel. During Season 17’s second audition episode, Milligan and his band delivered a show-stopping performance of his original song, “Sounds Like Something I’d Do,” captivating the audience and earning unanimous praise from the judges.

Simon Cowell commended Milligan’s charisma and songwriting, saying, “For me, a good song is a good song, and you’re very likable.” Heidi Klum praised his band, noting, “We don’t have many bands on the program yet, so I believe you’re ideal for America’s Got Talent.”

Milligan credits Elvis Presley as his inspiration to become a singer. At age seven, he saw an Elvis impersonator and was instantly drawn to the King’s energy and stage presence. “That’s when I realized I wanted to be like Elvis,” he shared.

Already an accomplished artist, Milligan released a self-titled EP in 2021 featuring five original tracks, including his audition song. The EP, available on all major streaming platforms, reflects his deep admiration for classic country legends like George Strait, Alan Jackson, Randy Travis, and George Jones. “The finest sorrowful songs are bittersweet but optimistic,” Milligan explained. “That’s the charm of country music: even sorrowful songs make you feel understood.”

To chase his dreams, Milligan relocated from Texas to Nashville, a city he calls the heart of the country music world. “I could not have set this record in Texas,” he noted. “Nashville is home to some of the finest songwriters and musicians in the world.”

Fans eager to see Milligan live can catch him on tour from June 10 to July 2, with stops in Missouri, Michigan, and more. Tickets and the full schedule are available on his official website, www.drakemilligan.com/tour.

Milligan’s AGT performance is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication to his craft. As he continues to impress on America’s Got Talent every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, fans and judges alike eagerly anticipate what’s next for this rising star.