Richard Goodall, a longtime middle school janitor from Terre Haute, Indiana, recently captivated audiences with his powerful performance at the Gibson County Fairgrounds following his breakout on America’s Got Talent (AGT). Goodall, who spent 23 years as a janitor just blocks from his home, grew up listening to music on the radio and has now made his dream of performing come true.
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Goodall’s inspiring journey from janitor to AGT star struck a chord with viewers across the country, and his concert at the Toyota Event Center on September 27 sold out well in advance. The evening was filled with heartfelt moments as Goodall took the stage, showcasing the same talent that brought him nationwide recognition.
Richard Goodall’s sold-out show marked another milestone in his incredible journey, leaving fans inspired by both his story and his talent. His rise from janitor to star serves as a reminder that dreams can come true, no matter where you start.
Watch his performance of “Authority Song” below.
“Authority Song” by John Cougar Mellencamp
The ’60s song that inspired “Authority Song” was the legendary “I Fought the Law” by The Bobby Fuller Four. Instead of the law, however, Mellencamp’s narrator faces down a broader enemy: I fight authority, authority always wins. But you’ll notice that even though he might be losing the battles, he’s clearly winning the war: Well, I’ve been doing it since I was a young kid / And I come out grinnin’.
In “Authority Song,” you can hear Mellencamp’s struggles with the record industry in microcosm. Not only do they get you in a compromising position, but they smile in your face while they do it. The narrator admits he’s in Round 5 of a 15-round heavyweight struggle. But he’s not about to take any trite advice about growing up, even it does come from his preacher: I said, ‘Growin’ up leads to growin’ old and then to dyin’ / Ooh, and dyin’ to me don’t sound like all that much fun.’”
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