Cowell quirked an eyebrow and sucked his lips in and told her to fire ahead. Then came this power house, soulful voice that blew through the theatre like a musical tsunami.
This kid had an extraordinary voice; not only did she sing the song as written, she was on top of all the notes and gave it her own interpretation. Everyone in the audience was absolutely squirming with delight.
This was a voice that was so beautiful her future is written in the stars already.
Cowell, after he'd pulled his jaw up, leaned across and pressed the golden buzzer. Even if Cowell had been initially sceptical about her singing such a huge song, he was putty in her hands at the end.
Staring at her with a goofy smile he said: "Look, Sarah, I've heard this song a lot and it started off really well. I thought 'this girl's great'.
"Then, it's like you became possessed halfway through. It was quite incredible. And for someone of your age to stand on the stage with all these nerves and all this pressure, to absolutely - not just to nail this song - but you made it your song."
Of course there were other contestants but Sarah was akin to knowing you have watched a superstar in the making.
Don't let them ruin you young Sarah, stay as bonny as you are.
