When singer-songwriter Daniel took the stage at Canada’s Got Talent 2024 and announced he would perform an original song, nobody expected him to launch into a #1 pop hit! Daniel Powter, 53, surprised both the audience and the judges with his iconic ballad “Bad Day,” a hit from 19 years ago, leaving them stunned with his unexpected performance.
In 2005, Daniel was everywhere on music channels. However, with no major hits since 2012, it took a moment for the judges to recognize him. Judge Howie Mandel’s realization hit him hard, almost causing him to leap from his seat. As Daniel sang, Trish Stratus got up to dance in her Barbie-pink jumpsuit, and the audience waved their phone flashlights in excitement.
Daniel Powter’s performance included a fresh twist on his hit, transforming the original’s melancholic tone into a surprisingly upbeat rendition. After the performance, Howie couldn’t resist a pun, telling Daniel, “Can I tell you something? You had a good day!”
The British Columbia native later shared with the judges how much it meant to him to finally perform on Canadian TV. With emotion in his voice, he said, “I’ve toured everywhere around the world, but this is my first time performing in Canada. Thank you for bringing me home.”
In a rare show of unity, Howie rallied the judges, and without any discussion, they all voted “Yes” in unison. Daniel’s debut single “Bad Day” reached #1 in the US, #2 in the UK, and #7 in Canada. Though his follow-up albums didn’t achieve the same success, “Bad Day” remains a cherished piece of noughties pop nostalgia. The enthusiastic response from the CGT audience proves that sometimes, one great song is enough to make a lasting impact.