Sofronio Vasquez opens 4th of July event with “America the Beautiful” rendition

Sofronio Vasquez. Image from his Facebook page

“The Voice USA” Season 26 champion Sofronio Vasquez delivered a heartfelt rendition of “America the Beautiful” at the Belmont Derby Invitational as part of America’s Independence Day festivities. 

Vasquez shared a clip of his performance on Facebook as he took center stage just before the prestigious race began on July 4, amazing the crowd with his soulful vocals and powerful delivery. 

“Happy Independence Day, America!” he captioned his post after the event. “Happy 4th of July 🫡🇺🇸 #SaratogaRaceCourse.” 

In the comments section, netizens described the Filipino singing sensation’s rendition as “moving,” “captivating” and “a fantastic way to honor America’s Independence.” 

Image: Facebook/Sofronio Vasquez

The Belmont Derby Invitational is one of the summer’s most anticipated horse-racing events, and this year’s edition carried added meaning as it coincided with America’s 248th Independence Day. 

Vasquez, who made history as the first male Asian and first Filipino winner of “The Voice USA,” also previously had the opportunity to meet tech mogul and philanthropist Bill Gates. 

The New York-based singer recently returned to the Philippines to stage his first solo concert in Cebu. He was also one of the special guests at Ogie Alcasid, Louie Ocampo and Ryan Cayabyab’s Valentine’s concert earlier this year.

Vasquez also shared the stage with Grammy Award-winning musician David Foster and his wife, singer Katharine McPhee, at the 2025 gala of the Gateway for Cancer Research Vino con Stelle. 

The former “Tawag ng Tanghalan” contestant also had his debut concert in Dubai on May 24 and did a special performance at Utica, USA, in The Stanley Theatre on June 14. /ra