PSU ALUMNUS JIMMIE HERROD WINS COVETED “GOLDEN BUZZER” ON AMERICA’S GOT TALENT

Jimmie Herrod MM Jazz ‘16, a graduate of Portland State University’s School of Music & Theater, this month made waves on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.” Judge Sofia Vergara was so impressed with his performance of “Tomorrow” from the musical “Annie” on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, that she used her coveted “golden buzzer,” advancing Herrod out of the audition rounds and straight to the final competition, which will be broadcast live later this summer.

During his time as a PSU music student, Jimmie honed his craft across a wide range of disciplines. While he received his master’s degree in Jazz performance, Herrod was a prolific composition student and performed all original pieces for his final recital. He was also a standout member of the PSU Chamber Choir, and was a featured soloist during their Bali International Choral Festival win in 2017.

As a professional vocalist, Jimmie is a highly sought-after performer. He began touring with acclaimed Portland ensemble Pink Martini in 2017, and was the featured vocalist on their 2019 EP “Tomorrow.” He was also the featured soloist for the Oregon Symphony’s 2018 TedX showcase and has performed with electronic pop duo ODESZA, based in Bellingham, Washington. He released his latest solo recording, “Falling in Love and Learning to Love Myself” in 2018.