A Night to Remember

Steve Ray Ladson & and bandmates Shine on AGT Stage

Tuesday Evening, August 19, 2025 | Pasadena, CA

We pause to celebrate a moment of artistic excellence as America’s Got Talent welcomed back South Carolina native Steve Ray Ladson, whose musical journey from farm fields to national acclaim continues to inspire. On Tuesday evening, August 19th, Ladson performed his newest original, “Boots Like Mine,” an upbeat anthem that honors everyday resilience and the beauty of humble beginnings.

DaShawn Hickman on the set of America's Got Talent

Joining him on stage was DaShawn Hickman, a gifted pedal steel guitarist from Mt. Airy, North Carolina, and a proud member of the North Carolina Diocese of The House of God Church, Inc. - Keith Dominion. Hickman’s sacred sound, rooted in the traditions of our faith, brought a spiritual depth to the performance that resonated far beyond the stage.

In a moment of pure joy, AGT Judge Sofia Vergara declared, “I did not like the song, I loved it!” and pressed the Golden Buzzer, sending the ensemble straight to the finals.

We celebrate each member of the Steve Ray Ladson group, knowing that it takes many members of the body to create one united sound. Just as Scripture reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12, “The body is not made up of one part but of many.” Each musician, each voice, each hand lifted in praise contributed to a performance that was not only musically excellent but spiritually profound.

Bishop Charlene M. Jamison, North Carolina Diocese Prelate was glued to the screen like many of the millions around the world and shared these heartfelt words: “We pray that God will guide each step of every member of the Steve Ray Ladson group, covering their journey with grace, favor, and direction. DaShawn, we are proud of you, and we eagerly await the moment when you will once again bless us with your music ministry during our next diocesan gathering. Your gift is a light, and your presence is a joy to behold.”

We echo Bishop Jamison’s sentiment and lift up every band member in prayer, asking that their journey continue to be marked by excellence, unity, and purpose.

You can capture some of the music ministry of DaShawn Hickman at https://www.hogckd.org/nctv and on the HOGC NC Diocese App.

Tune in to the all-new season of America’s Got Talent, now streaming on NBC and Peacock.

Article by the North Carolina Diocese Media Department

August 19th, Ladson performed his newest original, “Boots Like Mine

Click Here to view more media coverage on DaShawn Hickman and his music journey.