Bianca Ryan

The girl who made singer Brandy cry, 11-year-old vocalist Bianca Ryan did just that as the 2006 winner of the TV reality talent competition America's Got Talent. Born in Philadelphia in 1994, Ryan enjoyed singing from a young age and by age eight had developed an interest in gospel and R&B music. This led not only to appearances on Showtime at the Apollo and The Tom Joyner Show, but also to a spot on Star Search, where she ultimately lost. A judge and fan favorite from the start on the first season of America's Got Talent, Ryan received praise from each of the judges on the program from the get-go, especially Brandy, who ended up in tears after Ryan was announced the winner of the show. Featuring production by various artists including David Foster, Ryan's self-titled debut album was released on Columbia Records in 2006. ~ Matt Collar