With nothing but her voice and a camera, Courtney Hadwin has once again taken the internet by storm. The 21-year-old British powerhouse earned more than 2.4 million views for her raw, a cappella rendition of “Zombie” by The Cranberries, a performance so electrifying that many are calling it “one of the best covers ever.”
Hadwin, who first captured hearts as a 13-year-old America’s Got Talent finalist, brought a haunting new intensity to the ‘90s rock anthem. Without the help of a microphone, studio mix, or auto-tune, her gritty vocals and emotional delivery filled the room with pure, unfiltered soul. Every growl and rasp carried echoes of Janis Joplin and Ann Wilson, but the edge was unmistakably Courtney — raw, rebellious, and real.
Throughout the three-minute clip, Hadwin’s voice swelled with aching power, embodying the pain and protest that made “Zombie” such a timeless track. Her control and phrasing were stunning, balancing strength with vulnerability. Fans across social media were left breathless — some revisiting her AGT journey, others discovering her for the first time — but nearly everyone agreeing she’s the real deal.
“Absolutely amazing… you remind me a lot of Ann Wilson of Heart,” one fan wrote, while another added, “You are absolutely amazing — your voice is so powerful, you got a true gift, girl.”
Others couldn’t believe how much she’s grown since America’s Got Talent:
“I remember the baby version on TV — can’t believe how much you’ve grown up,” one viewer shared. Another commented, “It’s so depressing to see these people we were introduced to when they were so young become adults. But she still sounds so good.”
Even fans who were skeptical at first were won over:
“I’m too attached to the original,” one person admitted, “but this is definitely one of the best I’ve seen.”
Many praised her authenticity in an era of heavy production:
“No microphone, no auto-tune — just talent,” wrote another, while someone else added, “It amazes me that no one has snatched you up and signed you to a substantial contract… you have an awesome sound.”
And of course, some couldn’t help but reminisce about her AGT days:
“I remember Courtney Hadwin… Howie gave her the Golden Buzzer, and it was well deserved. Love your voice and energy.”
From powerful comments like “Full body chills” and “Gave me literal goosebumps” to playful requests for Amy Winehouse and Janis Joplin covers, the overwhelming reaction proves one thing — Hadwin’s voice still stirs souls the moment she starts to sing.
Whether it’s a stadium stage or a quiet room with nothing but her camera, Courtney Hadwin continues to embody the spirit of rock: raw, fearless, and unapologetically real.