The Chicago-based comedian explained his deep rooted love for karaoke before he took the stage. "When I was growing up, I was really inspired by all sorts of music but my first time really singing was at a karaoke bar. Ever since then, I’ve been singing. It makes me feel alive," he explained. "Some people think, 'Oh, it’s kind of amateur-ish,' but it’s just as professional as a normal singer. There’s just lyrics on screen."
His song of choice? The Champs' "Tequila," which only has one lyric ("tequila") in the entire two minutes. Cowell had the crowd, and judge Julianne Hough, cracking up at the bold selection, and they even joined him in shouting "Tequila!" at the end.
This isn't the first time Rowell performed his karaoke song of choice. A video went viral on Instagram, currently at more than 2 million views, of the comedian doing some "Tequila" karaoke at a bar.
"Song choice is always important on this stuff," judge Howie Mandel told Rowell. "Not only song choice but your exuberance and excitement. I love you."
Rowell made it through to the next round with a "yes" from all four judges. Watch his audition below.