Chuck Adams’ “Iris” Performance on America’s Got Talent 2025

Chuck Adams stepped onto the America’s Got Talent stage not just as another contestant but as a story of determination, family, and the enduring power of music. At 40, after years of encouragement from his mom and a winding road through the music business, Chuck delivered an unforgettable performance of “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls. The performance captured hearts and delivered a standing ovation from both judges and the audience. Here’s the story behind the man, the moment, and the music that made the world stop and listen.

Meet Chuck Adams – A Journey Fueled by Persistence and Family Support

Chuck Adams’ path to the AGT stage began in childhood. Like many artists, he was drawn to music early. His talent quickly opened doors; he landed a record deal not long after starting out. But as often happens, that first shot didn’t last. The record deal, full of promise, fell through. Instead of giving up, Chuck chose to keep following his passion.

“This thing started as a child, went quickly to a kind of a record deal…that went south like a lot of them do. Then I just kept going and then next thing you know it’s 10, 12 years later.”

Against the odds, Chuck kept pushing. Before he knew it, more than a decade had passed since that first big break. Now, standing on the AGT stage at 40, Chuck reflected on how fast the years had gone by.

One constant has always been his mom. She recognized his talent and believed in him, pushing him to reach higher. For at least ten years, she encouraged him—some might say lovingly nagged him—to try out for America’s Got Talent. Her unwavering support and gentle persistence finally paid off.

“I have somebody like my mother who has been asking me to do this show for a decade at least.”

Chuck’s mom even struck up conversations with the judges. Whether she actually formed a friendship or just exchanged friendly words, it became a heartfelt running joke during his introduction.

Key milestones in Chuck Adams’ music journey:

• Discovered love for music in childhood
• Landed and lost a fast-tracked record deal in his early career
• Spent another decade refining his style and building resilience
• Encouraged by his mom for years to pursue the AGT stage
• Stepped into the spotlight at age 40, proving it’s never too late

Anyone following stories of musicians who push through setbacks might enjoy reading about other artists, like Ansley Burns Music Profile, who also found strength on the AGT stage.

The Audition Performance – A Heartfelt Cover of “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls

When Chuck walked onto the AGT stage, there was an air of relaxed confidence paired with a hint of nerves. This wasn’t his first brush with big moments, but even for a seasoned performer, the stakes felt higher—this was for his mom, for himself, and for every person chasing a dream against the clock.

He introduced himself, warmly greeted by the judges, and prepared to sing “Iris.” The song, known for its emotional charge, fit Chuck’s reflective story perfectly.

He started with the opening lines, his guitar gently filling the auditorium:

*“And I’d give up forever to touch you / ‘Cause I know that you feel me somehow / You’re the closest to heaven that I’ll ever be / And I don’t wanna go home right now