American pop singer Sergio Sylvestre emerged in 2015 as a contestant on the popular Italian talent show Amici di Maria De Filippi. Born in Los Angeles to Mexican and Haitian immigrant parents, Sylvestre began singing after an injury derailed his football career. Following a vacation to Europe, he was enchanted by Italy and subsequently moved to the southern city of Puglia. After successfully auditioning to Amici's 15th season, Sylvestre proceeded to win over both the judges and the Italian audience, and was eventually crowned the winner in May 2016. He released his debut album, Big Boy, later that year. ~ Timothy Monger