1. The intended audience for Brandon Leake's spoken word piece is likely the judges and live audience of America's Got Talent, as well as the show's viewers who watch it on television or online. However, the piece can also resonate with a wider audience who may appreciate the art of spoken word or who have experienced similar emotions as the performer.
2. In his performance, Leake refers to the recent protests against police brutality and racial injustice, which have been ongoing in the United States and around the world. He also references the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected people globally. These current events have a profound effect on the audience, as they are emotionally charged and relevant issues that many people can relate to on a personal level.
3. Leake makes the performance personal by drawing on his own experiences with loss and grief, specifically in relation to his mother. However, he also incorporates themes that are universal and relatable, such as the pain of losing a loved one and the struggle to find hope in difficult times. By doing so, he is able to create a connection with the audience and evoke powerful emotions that transcend his own personal story.
4. Leake's purpose for writing and performing this spoken word piece is to honor his mother's memory and to share his personal experiences of loss and grief with the world. He also aims to raise awareness of important social issues and to use his art to promote positive change.
5. Based on the emotional response from the judges and the live audience during the performance, it can be argued that Leake was successful in his purpose. His piece resonated deeply with the audience and evoked strong emotions, showcasing the power of spoken word as a medium for personal expression and social commentary. Leake went on to win America's Got Talent Season 15, which further demonstrates the impact of his performance on the judges and viewers.