Self-described “singing competition loser” Matty Juniosa got his redemption arc on Britain’s Got Talent, becoming the most viral audition of 2026, and when you hear what he did with “Purple Rain”, your jaw will hit the floor! The Glasgow-based part-time waiter said he was an Idol Philippines reject in his home country, but clearly Idol was sleeping on an icon in the making. Matty has range for DAYS and a simply gorgeous vocal tone, as well as the ability to take “Purple Rain” to a completely new place.
Matty’s audition hit an unprecedented five million views in just four days, and when you hear his voice, it’s easy to understand why. He’s just got that magical thing with his voice – complete technical mastery, unique style, great song choice and a fresh take on a classic. The judges were stunned, and Simon Cowell gave him a very well-deserved golden buzzer. The Music Man has to say that Matty’s audition on this Prince hit is an instant classic Britain’s Got Talent audition.
Britain’s Got Talent uploaded Matty’s audition on March 29, 2026. Viewers added comments such as “The first Filipino singer who got Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer!!!” and “That’s one of the best performances I’ve ever seen on this show, incredible voice.” Viewers also noted that Filipino singers can always be relied upon to deliver the goods whenever they hit the Britain’s Got Talent stage.
Matty produced several viral videos during his run on the first season of Idol Philippines. One of his most popular performances is his take on the Filipino song “Nais Ko” in the live round, which hit 1.4 million views. We get to see quite a different side to Matty here. He delivers a dramatic diva-style opening over a stately piano part, before pumping up the energy and getting the room jumping with a funk rock performance. It was pretty clear even at this early point he was an incredible vocal talent.
The Music Man readers might be interested to hear that Matty’s uber viral Britain’s Got Talent audition made him an international sensation, getting major media coverage not only in Britain but from outlets worldwide. On BGT, the crowd and judges gave him a standing ovation, and the judges clearly knew they had just seen something special. Alesha Dixon said, “Matty, your range is insane! Oh my goodness. What a treat… Whatever you’re about, I just need more of it.” The judges could barely get the rest of their comments out over the crowd’s chanting of “press the gold,” and the rest is BGT history!