Tyler Butler-Figueroa

Tyler Butler-Figueroa is a violinist from Raleigh, North Carolina, known for his performances on national television and his advocacy for resilience and anti-bullying. Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at age four, Butler-Figueroa underwent extensive cancer treatment, including hospital stays, spinal taps, surgeries, and three years of chemotherapy. During this period, he experienced bullying at school due to hair loss from his medication.

Butler-Figueroa began playing the violin after discovering a flyer for free lessons in an after-school program. He advanced quickly, teaching himself advanced techniques through online videos and learning to play gospel and pop songs. Without funds for private instruction, he performed as a street musician to support his family.

Inspired by violinist Brian King Joseph, Butler-Figueroa auditioned for "America's Got Talent," where he received the Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell, advancing directly to the live rounds. His audition performance of Kelly Clarkson's "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" earned a standing ovation and brought national attention to his story. He finished as a top 10 finalist on "America's Got Talent" and performed on Ellen Show and in multiple shows in Las Vegas with AGT winner Kodi Lee for "AGT Live On Stage." His semifinal performance of Destiny's Child's "Survivor," alongside fellow cancer survivors, was recognized as one of the season's most memorable moments. Butler-Figueroa later competed on "America's Got Talent: The Champions Season 2," placing third globally. He has been recognized as one of Simon Cowell's top 10 "Golden Buzzer" contestants and among the show's most viral participants.

Butler-Figueroa earned the 1st chair/concertmaster position with the Philharmonic Association / Triangle Youth Symphony and the Chamber Orchestra at Enloe High School in Raleigh. As a recording artist, he produced his original song "No Sleep" and the EP cover album "Timeless, Vol. 1," which spans soul, R&B, and hip-hop genres. He also curated and produced his solo headlining show, Timeless: The Experience, based on the album. His musical repertoire includes pop, classical, gospel, folk, patriotic, hip-hop, country, soul, Bollywood, R&B, and Spanish genres.

In addition to his musical career, Butler-Figueroa is a keynote speaker on topics such as music, cancer survivorship, overcoming adversity, mental health, and anti-bullying. He has performed at events including the Pentagon's annual Bring Your Child to Work Day and for former President George W. Bush at the BIO Healthcare Convention in Boston. Butler-Figueroa's journey from childhood cancer survivor to nationally recognized musician and advocate positions him as a prominent figure in music performance, youth empowerment, and cancer awareness.