From Car Washer to Millionaire, Surprising Crooner Wins America’s Got Talent (Video)

A year ago he was working in a car wash in Logan, West Virginia, and then he stepped on the audition stage for America’s Got Talent.

Up against thousands of other contenders, Landau Eugene Murphy Jr., with his long dreadlocks and wide toothy smile, looked like a hip hop, reggae or Motown singer — anything but the Sinatra crooner he turned out to be.

Over the course of the show’s five performances he wowed the audience and judges with old standards like Fly Me to the Moon, I’ve Got You Under My Skin and Ain’t That a Kick in the Head.

“Never judge a book by its cover,” exclaimed a shocked judge.

He saved the best for last, singing the Sinatra signature “My Way” in the finals two months ago. He won the most votes along with the million dollar prize.

The father of 3 is now building a home for his wife and kids with his winnings and his new CD, That’s Life, goes on sale tomorrow.

Watch his amazing performances below, beginning with his stunning audition in Manhatten…

I’ve Got You Under My Skin – 1st Audition, Jacob Javits Convention Cntr

Fly Me To the Moon – Top 48

I’ve Got the World on a String – Semi-finals  (24)

Ain’t That a Kick in the Head – Top Ten

I Did it My Way – Final Four