Compton, a gifted soloist with a heartfelt connection to the material, opened the performance with a voice full of warmth and vulnerability. His rendition of the song’s opening lines—“You with the sad eyes, don’t be discouraged”—set a deeply emotional tone, immediately drawing the audience into the message of the song.

Compton, known for his expressive voice and stage presence, brought a unique depth to the performance, effortlessly conveying the song’s message of unconditional self-acceptance. As he sang the heartfelt lyrics—“You can say what you want, but I'm still standing”—his rich voice filled the church, with the audience cheering him on.