When the opening chords of Laura Branigan’s iconic hit Self Control echoed through the America’s Got Talent (AGT) stage, the audience was immediately transported back to the vibrant ‘80s. With its infectious energy, captivating rhythm, and unforgettable lyrics, the song was a defining anthem of its time, and witnessing its live performance on such a grand stage brought a renewed sense of excitement and nostalgia. The retro energy of this classic was not only felt by the audience but also radiated from the talented contestant who took on the song, paying homage to Branigan’s powerful rendition while adding their unique twist to make the performance their own.
Self Control was released in 1984, a year that saw the peak of synth-pop, new wave, and power ballads, with artists like Laura Branigan establishing themselves as icons of the era. The song’s theme of love and emotional turmoil, combined with its pulsating electronic beats and soaring vocals, made it an instant hit. It became a chart-topping single in numerous countries, cementing Branigan’s place in music history.
On the AGT stage, the contestant who chose Self Control was not only brave but seemed to embody the song’s very essence. As the lights dimmed and the familiar synthesizer intro started, the atmosphere was immediately electrified. The audience, recognizing the track, buzzed with anticipation. The contestant, dressed in an outfit that channeled the bold fashion trends of the ‘80s, moved confidently to center stage, embodying both the era’s stylistic flair and the song’s empowering energy.
The performance began with a commanding presence. The contestant’s vocal delivery was nothing short of impressive, seamlessly capturing the powerful intensity of Branigan’s original while injecting their own personality and flair into the rendition. As the singer hit the high notes of the chorus,
“I, I live among the creatures of the night,” it was clear they had a deep connection with the song. Each word was delivered with passion and control, resonating with the emotional turmoil embedded in the lyrics. The crowd, fully immersed in the energy of the moment, could feel the weight of the performance.
Visually, the staging was carefully designed to evoke the ‘80s vibe. Neon lights in various shades of pink, blue, and purple flashed in sync with the beat, creating a sense of nostalgia for the era of big hair, bold fashion, and MTV music videos. The LED lights behind the performer pulsed and flickered, resembling the electric vibrancy of the ‘80s music scene. This attention to detail in the visual elements amplified the excitement, making it not just a song but an experience that blended music and visual art seamlessly.
As the song progressed, the contestant’s confidence grew. The energy on stage was palpable, as they matched the song’s tempo with fluid, confident movements. The choreography was simple yet effective, enhancing the performance without overshadowing the raw emotion that the contestant brought to the lyrics.
Self Control is a song of inner conflict, and this rendition explored the tension between desire and restraint, both in its lyrics and in the contestant’s emotive delivery. The dynamic shifts in energy — from the powerful, high-energy chorus to the softer, more introspective verses — kept the audience engaged throughout the performance.
What made this cover of Self Control stand out was the performer’s ability to bring new life to a song that’s been heard countless times. While the melody and the lyrics remained familiar, the contestant added their own unique vocal inflections, emphasizing the emotional undercurrent that Branigan originally conveyed. There was a vulnerability in the way they sang certain lines, especially during the bridge, that highlighted their personal connection to the song. It was a bold and heartfelt choice to take on such an iconic track, but the performer nailed it, breathing fresh air into a classic while still honoring its original spirit.
As the final notes of Self Control reverberated through the AGT stage, the crowd erupted into applause. The contestant’s fearless performance had left a lasting impact. The judges, clearly impressed by the boldness of the choice and the execution, were equally enthusiastic in their praise.
Simon Cowell, known for his tough but fair feedback, commended the contestant for taking on such a challenging and beloved song, noting that their voice had the power to carry it while still making it their own. The other judges joined in with similar praise, acknowledging both the nostalgia the performance evoked and the contestant’s ability to make the song feel new and relevant for today’s audience.
What makes Self Control such a powerful song, even after more than three decades, is its timeless ability to resonate with listeners. The song’s exploration of the struggle between freedom and restraint, love and control, still feels poignant and relatable today. When performed on a stage like AGT, it has the ability to transcend generations, bridging the gap between the past and the present. The contestant’s performance did just that, reminding everyone why this classic still holds such a prominent place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
In an era where many songs are quickly forgotten, Self Control remains a standout track because of its unmistakable energy and the emotional depth that Laura Branigan infused into it. On the AGT stage, this performance was not only a celebration of the ‘80s but a reminder of how music has the power to connect us across time, culture, and experience. The energy of the performance, the heart behind each note, and the timeless appeal of
Self Control combined to create an unforgettable moment that will live on in the memories of everyone who witnessed it.
