Long before her explosive performances on America’s Got Talent, Courtney Hadwin showed glimpses of her extraordinary talent in a quieter, more intimate setting. One such moment was her heartfelt rendition of Bob Dylan’s timeless ballad, Make You Feel My Love. Though she was only a young teen at the time, Courtney sang with the emotion and depth of someone far beyond her years.
The song, originally penned by Dylan and famously covered by Adele, Garth Brooks, and Billy Joel, is known for its raw vulnerability and emotional weight. It’s not an easy song to perform well, particularly for someone so young. But Courtney approached it not with flashy theatrics, but with a subtle intensity that made every lyric feel personal.
Standing on stage with nothing more than a microphone and quiet accompaniment, Courtney let her voice carry the emotion. Her tone was soft at first, drawing the listener in, and as the song progressed, she layered in soulful phrasing and quiet strength. Each line felt like a promise, each word soaked with sincerity.
What made her version so compelling was her ability to communicate longing and tenderness without over-singing. There was no need for vocal gymnastics—just honesty. She didn’t just sing the song; she felt it, and in doing so, made the audience feel it too.
The video of this early performance has continued to gain attention online, with fans praising the maturity of her voice and the genuine emotion she conveyed. Many were surprised to learn how young she was at the time, as her interpretation rivaled those of seasoned artists.
One viewer commented, “She’s got an old soul. You can hear it in her voice—like she’s lived a thousand lives.” Another said, “This song has been covered so many times, but Courtney’s version stands out because it’s so real. You believe every word she sings.”
Courtney’s ability to tap into deep emotions at such a young age is part of what makes her such a rare and captivating talent. Even in her earliest performances, there was something raw and unpolished that felt authentic and deeply moving.
Though she would go on to wow global audiences with rock ‘n’ roll swagger and Janis Joplin-esque grit, performances like this remind fans of her versatility. She can quiet a room just as powerfully as she can bring one to its feet.
In many ways, Make You Feel My Love was a perfect match for young Courtney Hadwin—both the song and the singer share a depth that transcends age. And in those few unforgettable minutes, she reminded the world that true musical connection doesn’t require years—it only takes heart.