When Collabro first walked onto the Britain’s Got Talent stage in 2014, there was a noticeable ripple of skepticism among the audience. Dressed modestly, introducing themselves as a newly formed boyband, they were met with polite smiles—and perhaps a few eye-rolls. After all, boybands had become a familiar sight on talent shows, and many assumed they were in for yet another generic performance. But within seconds of singing their first note, that skepticism melted away.
The group, made up of five members—Michael Auger, Jamie Lambert, Matthew Pagan, Thomas Redgrave, and Adam Bernardo—had only known each other for a month before their audition. It was a fact that raised eyebrows at first but became even more astonishing once they began to sing. Choosing “Stars” from the beloved musical Les Misérables, the group brought a level of vocal maturity, harmony, and emotion that few were expecting. Their voices blended seamlessly, each member contributing a rich texture to the performance that left the judges and audience visibly moved.
As the final note faded, the reaction was instant. The crowd rose to their feet, cheering and applauding with genuine enthusiasm. Even the notoriously hard-to-please Simon Cowell looked impressed. It was clear to everyone in that theater—Collabro wasn’t just another boyband. They were something special.
Their performance wasn’t flashy or over-rehearsed. Instead, it was sincere, polished, and powerful. Each member exuded a quiet confidence and love for musical theater that set them apart from the pop-focused groups usually seen on the show. Their shared passion and natural chemistry, despite their short time together, made the moment even more impactful.
That unforgettable audition was just the beginning of Collabro’s journey. They continued to impress week after week, showcasing a repertoire of classic songs that highlighted their vocal precision and emotional range. By the time the finale rolled around, they had earned a dedicated fan base and the admiration of the judges. And then came the big moment: Collabro was crowned the winner of Britain’s Got Talent 2014.
Their win opened doors almost immediately. They were signed to Simon Cowell’s record label, Syco Music, which helped propel their debut album, Stars, to the top of the UK charts. It was a commercial success, cementing their place in the music industry far beyond the world of television competitions. And they didn’t stop there.
Collabro went on to release multiple albums over the years, each one offering a fresh take on musical theater classics, as well as original songs. Their music resonated not only with fans of stage musicals but with anyone who appreciates heartfelt, beautifully crafted vocal performances. They took their show on the road, embarking on extensive tours throughout the UK and Europe, performing in some of the most iconic venues to consistently sold-out audiences.
Beyond the music, Collabro earned praise for their humility and genuine connection with fans. Whether through meet-and-greets, social media interactions, or heartfelt messages during concerts, they maintained the same down-to-earth charm that won hearts during their audition.
Over time, Collabro became one of the most successful musical groups to ever emerge from a talent show. Their story is a reminder not to judge too quickly, and that sometimes, extraordinary things can come from the most unexpected beginnings. If you’ve never seen their original audition—or even if you have—it’s worth revisiting. Watch it below and prepare to be moved. And if you’re as impressed as we were, share your thoughts with us on Facebook—we’d love to hear what you think.
