In 1985, Johnny Carson was the famed host of the Tonight Show. Hundreds of audience members and several million Americans tuned in to watch the virtuoso pianist Horacio Gutiérrez work his magic on the show one night. Unfortunately, the musical master injured the tips of his fingers in a “car door” accident and canceled on Carson at the very last minute.

Instead of disappointing his audience and viewers, Carson decided to do something a little different. He polled the crowd asking, “has anyone studied piano for more than five years?” A few hands shot up into the air, but Carson zeroed in on a flip flop clad man in his early 30’s sporting a Nike t-shirt.

As he made his way from the stands and shook hands with the host and guests on stage the anticipation in the room was obvious… would this unassuming guy be able to deliver on his claim?

And the casual man in question, David Tolley, did more than deliver – he rocked the house!

With a beautiful rendition of “Memories” from the musical Cats, Tolley’s fingers flew over the keys with speed and skill. The moment changed his life forever. Trolley’s new found fame led him to tour with the world famous band YES, play for the president at the white house, and he currently holds a professorship at Delaware University.

Check out the moment that changed his life below.