According to Down Syndrome Education International, most people who have Down syndrome never gain singing abilities. That information certainly didn’t stop a resolute youngster known as Madison Tevlin, however. The 12 year-old recently performed a cover of the romantic hit ballad “All of Me” by vocalist John Legend.
Tevlin’s performance stunned the world. Singing is a much more difficult process for people who have Down syndrome. Individuals who have Down syndrome need to use two times the normal vocal energy to make sounds when they communicate. This energy is referred to as “microvolts.” Despite this obstacle being in the way, Tevlin managed to wow everyone with her “All of Me” rendition. From start to finish, she looked and sounded every bit the pro.
Problems with short-term memory are extremely commonplace in people who have Down syndrome. People who have Down syndrome also frequently have trouble with loss of hearing. Although both of these things could be frustrating for singing, Tevlin was far from discouraged. She managed to successfully memorize each and every single lyric of “All of Me.” Astoundingly enough, the song has 348 words. Tevlin didn’t skip a beat when she was performing the song. There were absolutely no pauses or gaps in her performance.
Tevlin had yet another stumbling block during her “All of Me” performance, and that was a sinus infection. Although she had this infection, she remained the consummate professional the whole time. Tevlin stated that her goal is to inspire other people, and she definitely accomplished that.