After receiving a standing ovation from the judges and audience, Howie Mandel slammed the coveted button.
I wanted to cry, Guardino tells EW, reliving the unexpected moment of glory.
I was really nervous before I got on stage.
I was just thinking,I cant mess up.
I cant mess up.
I started going off on the song and getting comfortable.
Making GuardinosAGTexperience even more special: He was able to watch all the action go down.
Struggling with his vision impairment as a child, Guardino turned to melody.
Music was always my escape, he says.
When I was dealing with my condition, it was a way to forget everything that was happening.
His disability would end up amplifying his musical talent, too.
My hearing was strengthened because of my eyesight, he says.
I hear music in a strong way.
Its always been there for me.
I love his voice.
He also looks up to Cowell.
But Im really glad he liked me!
Cowells October announcement that he would return to the showmotivated Guardino to audition.
Im a huge fan ofAmericas Got Talentand ever since Simon came on it was like,No way.
Its been my dream to go in front of him.
After his successful Los Angeles audition, Guardino spotted Cowell outside the theater and walked up to him.
The compliments have poured in, with hostTyra Banks tweeting, You just BLEW ME AWAY!
on Tuesday, and Howie Mandel singing his praises in aYouTube video.
