There are few things in this world as genuine as a child. They aren’t afraid to speak their minds, dance like no one is watching, or sing their little hearts out, even for an audience. As a child, I would regularly give singing performances; sometimes I sang for friends and family members, but other times it was just my stuffed toys, my devoted pet dog, Fred, or no one at all. I would belt out my favorite songs from Disney movies, songs that I had heard on the radio, or even ones that I made up myself.
In my head, I sounded like a brilliant singer, and my perfect voice was accompanied by wild gestures and very often, “interpretive” dance. I was the consummate performer. My audience always humored me and welcomed my impromptu musical theatre. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until later in life that I learned I am actually a terrible singer and not exactly a talented dancer.
But you bet I can say otherwise for little Kai—he’s an Ellen favorite since he’s a somewhat regular guest on the Ellen Show and an amazing performer/singer. He first appeared as a 5-year-old singing “Roar.” Ellen loved him, as did her audience, and he was asked back to cover Bruno Mars. He appeared again, singing “Cake by the Ocean” and once again wowed the crowd with his passionate performance.
He recently returned to Ellen’s stage, this time as a much more mature 8-year-old, to cover Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud”. Kai has a better voice than I ever had, but his true gift is his undeniable stage presence. This time, as he sings, and really gets into it (literally, the kid has his eyes closed and looks like he’s transported to another planet…) the crowd begins to cheer. What Kai doesn’t know is that it’s because Ed Sheeran is there, waiting right behind Kai to surprise him.
I laughed at his reaction when I saw it. Kai was definitely star-struck when he saw one of his favorite singers join him on the set. All the little boy could muster out was a shy, “Hi.” He waved his hand at Ed, and then sat there, staring at the singing sensation with a big smile wiped across his face. It’s one of the cutest reactions ever.
Watch Kai’s awesome performance and the heartwarming surprise that Ellen has for him. Please like and share this fun video!