Meet The Funkateers The Detroit Dancers Who Brought Down the House on ‘AGT’

The Funkateer Dancers proved that funk never goes out of style — and neither does talent. On the June 17 episode of “America’s Got Talent,” the Detroit-based group brought the house down with their high-energy routine and a heartwarming story that spans more than four decades. With their iconic sparkly shoes and signature moves, the Funkateers earned a standing ovation — and a surprise Golden Buzzer from host Terry Crews.

A Golden Buzzer Moment That Had Everyone Funkin’ Out

The Funkateer Dancers kicked off the night with their signature routine set to Rick James’ “Give It To Me, Baby,” instantly energizing the crowd and judges Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B. All four rose to their feet as the group locked, popped, and funked their way through the performance.

“I love it when we start the day with an act that is perfect,” Vergara gushed. “You guys are what AGT is all about. You’re great, you have a beautiful story and you actually did what you were supposed to do. I loved it!”

Howie Mandel agreed: “As good as they were in high school, it’s better that you did it now at this age. It makes it even better!”

Simon Cowell nearly hit the Golden Buzzer himself — but Terry Crews swooped in from behind the panel and beat him to it. “That was supposed to be mine!” Cowell protested. Crews, undeterred, ran on stage to embrace the dancers. “These are my people!” he shouted.

“This performance proves that age ain’t nothing but a number,” Crews told the audience after officially making the Funkateers his first Golden Buzzer of the season.

The Golden Buzzer sends the Funkateers straight to the live shows, which begin in August. Each judge and the host only get two chances per season to use the buzzer, making this a major vote of confidence in the group’s potential.

Meet The Funkateers: Detroit Legends With Moves That Don’t Quit

The Funkateer Dancers — also known simply as the Funkateers — first formed in 1980 as a high school talent show act in Inkster, Michigan. After winning that competition, they became regulars in Detroit’s local dance scene, even appearing on the legendary television show “The Scene,” a cornerstone of the Motor City’s music and dance culture in the 1980s.

Their choreography helped shape Detroit’s street dance scene by blending jit, popping and locking into a unique funk-infused style that inspired generations.

After stepping away from performing to raise families and pursue careers — including jobs in sales, financial services, maintenance, and Homeland Security — The Funkateers reunited in 2019. Despite the years apart, the rhythm came right back.

“When we got back together, it was just like riding a bike,” Miller, 66, told the Detroit Free Press ahead of their audition. “Being able to [dance] at the age that we are — and we can still do it at a high level — it’s wonderful.”

Fellow dancer Kelly, 64, added, “We got three to five more years left in us to go ahead and do this thing for real, wherever it’s going to take us.”

Their long-term goals include booking commercials and touring with artists, but for now, all eyes are on the “America’s Got Talent” stage — and that million-dollar prize.

Tell us! Were you as blown away by The Funkateers as the “AGT” crew? Let us know in the comments below.