Team Niall: Ross Clayton and Laura Littleton sang Stop Dragging My Love Around by Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks-- I would give the edge to Ross. I just think there is something unique about him, his style, his voice. Niall said you're two unbelievable singers. He ended up choosing Ross.
Team Chance: Magnus and Alyssa Lazar sang Your Song by Elton John-- I LOVE both of them. I did not expect that. Magnus has such a warm and round tone. I also love how he chose to phrase the words. Alyssa leveled up from the blinds, she outdid herself. Alyssa said you are piercing and powerful, and Magnus your voice is round and warm bodied. Chance said Alyssa, your voice and style is meant for this song. Magnus you smashed the intentionality of the notes I gave you on this song. Chance chose Magnus.
Team Kelly: Marcos Covos and Sheer Element sang I Could Fall in Love with You by Selena. Kelly chose Marcos.
Team Blake: Kylee Dayne and Mary Kate Connor sang Anti-Hero by Taylor Swift--These young women are both amazing!! Wow! I think this is one of my fave ever Battles on The Voice. I love how Kylee has more this alto harmony and Mary Kate with that sweet soprano and the ad libs. Niall said you made Anti Hero completely your own. Chance said it seemed like you two grew up together, you should record that version. Kelly said Kylee your voice always sounds special, Mary Kate, you have this passion that is breathtakingly beautiful. Niall went for Mary Kate, Chance went for Kylee, and Kelly didn't really say, she said that they were evenly matched. Blake said you both gave 150% at what you do. He chose Kylee as the winner of the battle. He gave Mary Kate his play off pass.
From Team Blake: Tasha Jessen and EJ Michels sang Tracks of My Tears by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles-- I thought it was a close battle but I loved EJ. I would give him the edge. Chance thought it was award level performance. Niall would also go with EJ. Blake said there is something special about Tasha's tone. EJ came in swinging. Blake went with Tasha and Chance and Niall tried to steal. EJ chose Niall. Good because Chance was very conceited in his approach.
Team Chance: Jamar Langley and Mariah Kalia sang Gravity by John Mayer-- Mariah was doing more ad-libbing but I think I liked stylistically and vibe wise where Jamar was sitting with that performance. It was a cool performance of older style verse younger style. Kelly said Mariah you brought a sassy vibe to it, and Jamar you have an incredible gift. Blake said I would pick Jamar, and Mariah I would invest a lot of money in you. Chance said Jamar you are an artist's artist, and Mariah you have so much control with your voice, you blow me away. Chance chose Jamar.
Team Niall: Gina Miles and Kala Banham sang Skinny Love by Bon Iver-- They were both amazing! I loved that. I really cannot pick a winner. Kala has a warm tone, Gina with that high tone is gorgeous. Kelly said you're both fantastic. Chance enjoyed the dynamics. Blake said this was evenly matched, and he asked Gina who she listens to and how she learned to sing. Blake said I would love to hear you on a record. Niall said Gina has this quiet speaking voice but when she comes out and sings it's crazy. He loves Kala's commitment to the process. Niall chose Gina as the winner. Kelly stole Kala.
Team Kelly: Allie Keck and Cait Martin sang It Must Have Been Love by Roxette-- Ali had some powerful moments in that performance. Cait shined throughout and what was really special was how she made Ali shine as much as she made herself shine. I would go with Cait. Niall said that they both made it their own, and he isn't any help picking. Chance loved Ali's tone, and he thought Cait made it her own. He would go with Cait. Kelly chose Cait.
Team Blake: Walker Wilson and Kason Lester sang Here Without You by 3 Doors Down-- First off, I am a HUGE fan of 3 Doors Down, so this is going to be a good battle. I would go with Walker, I just thought he had that tone that is really pleasing and draws you in. Niall liked his husk and he likes how Walker's tone pierces through. He'd lean towards Walker. Chance said you guys are the same person, but then he continued and said you're just wearing a hat to Walker. I thought was that kind of rude because they do have different qualities to their voice which Kelly talked about. Kelly thought it was evenly matched. She said Kason has more gravel and rasp but Walker has grit to his voice. He described what Walker has as a "buzz". Blake chose Walker
Team Chance: Sorelle and Manassah Simone sang Someone Like You by Adele-- Wow! I seriously hope they both go through. They all contributed so much to this performance. There were so many beautiful and powerful moments. That was beautiful. Kelly said that was really well done Sorelle, Manassah you are the reason why this show exists. Blake said I wondered if this was gonna work and now I feel like I only want to hear you all sing together. Niall said Manassah where you started and ended were two different planets, and Sorelle the harmonies were so good. Chance picked Sorelle to move on. He granted Manassah his only "Playoff Pass". She will go right through to the playoffs.
Kaeyra sang Cold by Chris Stapleton-- Kaeyra has a unique sound. As I was watching the show tonight, I was thinking about how so many people sound so similar. It's why I only have four notable performances from tonight. Well five, if you include Fire returning a completely different person with a different mindset.
Isaac Brown sang Golden Hour by JVKE and Essence by WizKid-- Isaac has just so much personality and it would be so great to have a timeless R&B singer in this competition. I feel like there is a space for R&B in music today.
Cam Amen sang Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen-- What a special young man with a heartbreaking story, but yet a triumphant one. His voice is just so emotional, authentic, and raw. The judges were so moved that they offered him a platinum ticket.
Fire Willmore sang Love in the Dark by Adele-- Fire came back with a new mindset, she was like a brand new person. I can tell that she worked hard on her craft while she was awaiting her second chance. It will be great to see how she continues to progress during the next round.
Oliver Stelle sang In My Life by The Beatles and Change the World by Eric Clapton-- Oliver performs the first song and he is good but performs the second song for his dad and it is amazing. I can see him being a contender for this competition. His voice and talent is undeniably next level.
Nariyella sang One Night Only-- Wow! 4 chairs, that was so awesome. Niall said you seemed so comfortable up there. Blake said your voice is shocking. Kelly said I have also been on a show like Niall and think I would be a good coach for you. Chance said your voice is beyond your years, and she chose Chance.
Grace West sang Maybe It Was Memphis-- Grace has a great voice, I did not have any idea she was only 19. Blake and Niall pushed for Grace. Niall said your voice is impeccable and you have such sweet tones. Blake said you have this thing that artists your age don't have anymore, you have some Pam Tillis in your voice.
Katie Beth Forakis sang Ghost by Justin Bieber-- Her voice was unique. Niall and Kelly were the only ones who turned with Blake and Chance's teams full. Katie ended up going with Kelly.
Michael Ladingham and Dasha performed but no one turned.
Talia Smith sang Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing-- The song choice was terrible but I love Talia's energy and with that she became the singer to complete Niall's team. I hope going into future rounds Niall chooses songs to better compliment her voice, I don't think I would have chosen her based on song choice alone.
Mariah Kalia sang Idon'twannabeyouanymore by Billie Eilish-- Wow that was a hot performance! Oh my gosh, her voice and the dynamics were just so far beyond her years. Niall and Chance turned early on. Chance says he is blown away and wants to spend time learning her influences. Niall feels like he heard a young Amy Winehouse. Kelly said it is about who is going to bring out the best version of you. She chose Chance
Kylee Dayne sang Fallingwater by Maggie Rogers-- Chance and Blake pushed and then Niall hit his button at the end. I wasn't feeling the song choice, I didn't think it was the best in terms of showcasing her voice. Chance says she is the textbook definition of a star. Niall said she sounded a lot like Florence from Florence and the Machine. Blake said it's his last season as a coach on The Voice after 12 years. Kylee chose Blake
Joe with the Flow sang Mystery of Love by -- No one turned but yet he was so memorable! I hope he comes back.
Gina Miles sang The One That Got Away by Katy Perry-- Kelly and Niall turned. Gina has this quiet voice but her singing voice is so big and powerful. Niall comments on how she grips the microphone with two hands and says he used to do that. Niall says Kelly is one of the best voices of the past ten generations but he can coach to feeling and character and Gina has both of those. Gina picks Niall
Kason Lester sang Let's Start Over by Daughtry-- I kept going between loving it and feeling like he was just missing. He had a great rock voice but I felt like he was just outside the pocket. Blake was the only one who pushed.
JB Somers sang Case of You by Joni Mitchell-- I love his voice, it's really different and cool. Kelly said you are gonna make it to the finale. Chance said I respected your high register. My friend James Blake covered that song. I think he would be good on either Kelly or Chance's team. JB goes with Kelly.
Alison Bailey sang by Lauren Daigle-- No one turned, everyone urged her to come back and work on her lower register.
Ray Uriel sang Glimpse of Us-- Chance turns at the last minute and is the only coach to turn. Could Ray turn out to be someone who makes it to the live shows? Chance comments on his radio ready voice.
Alyssa Lazar sang Maybe I'm Amazed-- She also ended up on Team Chance
Rachel Christine sang Uninvited by Alanis Morrisette-- I love this song. She's awesome. I love female rockers. Chance turned and Kelly turned at the last moment. Kelly said Alanis is one of her favorites and she did not disappoint. Kelly said if I were your coach I'd want you to be more wild with parts of it. Blake said Chance has been waiting to talk for 15 minutes. Chance said I turned first and I want to win this whole show. You have an amazing tone. Rachel chose Kelly
Domenica Coka sang When I Look At You by Miley Cyrus-- No one turned, her voice was a little shouty. Kelly said it was pitchy and urged her to come back.
Cait Martin sang As It Was by Harry Styles-- One of my fave Voice auditions EVER. She is amazing. I love how she made such a memorable and well known song hers. Her tone and dynamics are just fire. I literally felt every emotion with that performance. All the coaches turned! Kelly, then Niall, and Blake and Chance turned towards the end. Kelly said your range, that was high, and you did that so effortlessly. Blake said I am tired but I would love to go out with a win on this thing. I can dig down deep and find the energy and passion to win the Voice. Niall said I was blown away, you like storyteller type music and that's what I do for a living. You had so many dynamic and beautiful moments in the song. Chance said if you want to win, you should ride with me. Cait chose Kelly
These were my faves from tonight-- Hopefully we'll see some of them in the Top 26.
Mariah Faith sang Whenever You Come Around by Vince Gill and I Can't Make You Love Me by Bonnie Raitt-- I absolutely LOVE Mariah's story and she is relevant, but I question whether or not her voice is going to be strong enough to get her through this competition.
Nailyah Serenity sang My Man by Barbara Streisand from Funny Girl-- Nailyah conjures Nina Simone and Ella Fitzgerald. This song beautifully showcased her vocal abilities. She took a song that was Broadway but gave it a jazz feel. Lionel said that was "heavy navigation" and he thoroughly enjoyed it.
PJAE (Peter Gomez) sang Mirror by Madison Ryann Ward-- What a performance, PJAE was truly connected to the song. Katy called it so many things-- beautiful, effortless, emotional, angelic, sad and painful. We felt every emotion in that song. Lionel said I'd like to thank you for healing our family.
Warren Peay sang To The Table by Zach Williams-- Warren has such a Chris Stapleton vibe. Lionel said his voice cut through. Luke thought it was badass. Lionel even thinks he could be top ten worthy. Katy compared him to a Christian Chris Stapleton.
Paige Anne sang What About Us by Pink-- She has a gorgeous voice, very poised for 16 years old. She got some great tips from runner up David Archuleta and her voice really soars.
Ophrah Kablan sang Baby I Love You by Aretha Franklin-- I love her old school approach to singing. Her range is awesome, and she just sings with such conviction. Lionel said you became our salvation. They all said yes!
I also cannot wait to see single mom Fire return to American Idol after Katy gave her a second chancde to come back and audition at the Nashville auditions.
Kate Cosentino sang I Say a Little Prayer-- She has a unique sound and she looks like an artist from the 80s. Kelly, Chance, and Niall all turned pretty much at the same time. Kelly said you have a pretty alto register, kinda lullaby-ish. Niall said there is an already made star in there. Chance made his pitch but went back and added how much he wants her on his team.
Al Boogie sang T-R-O-U-B-L-E-- He was unique but no one turned around.
Chloe Abbott sang How Deep is Your Love by The Bee Gees-- Chance said she sounded like Anita Baker and Nora Jones. She was great! I don't know why more people didn't turn. She reminded me of Kelly Rowland. Chloe said I am glad he took a "chance" on me.
Marcos Covos Tu Solo Tu-- Kelly turned right at the beginning and Blake turned at the last second. Marcos has such a big personality and a voice to match. He is so cool. Kelly said she loves when people sing in Spanish and she felt the passion from him. Blake said he was incredible and judging by the reaction from the audience he knew that what was happening on stage must be good.
Tiana Goss sang Emotion by The Bee Gees-- Woah! She was awesome, and she got better as the performance went on. Niall was the only one who turned. Niall said you picked a song that was well suited for your vocals, and Chance was vibin' beside me.
Mary Kate Connor sang Stars by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals-- Mary Kate has such a pretty voice, I kept looking at Niall and thinking he was going to turn around. Blake turned first and then Kelly on this one. Kelly said it was beautiful and tender, you didn't slide into it, you hit it head on. Blake said your voice is soft and angelic, and then he asked Niall to do an impersonation of him. She chose Blake and he said America is just going to be in love with you.
Some great ones tonight. I feel like just about all of them have potential to go far in this competition. Particularly love Tiana's fight, she took her notes last year and came back with a song that really showcased her vocals. Kate seems fun and a pairing of her and Niall may be magic. I won't count out Mary Kate's Americana feel.
I didn't get to post this on Oscar night because the show ran so late that by the time American Idol was to be on I was asleep. There was some great talent that night, but there were three contestants in particular that I found worthy of getting to the live showcases.
In no particular order--
Hannah Nicolaisen sang To Make Me Feel Your Love by Bob Dylan-- this young woman just started singing a few months ago, her ability is immense. Katy said, I don't think you even realize what you have. Lionel told Hannah that a unique voice like hers is what they pray for. Luke told her she is born to sing.
Tripp Taylor sang I Believe it to My Soul by Ray Charles-- WOW! This young man is a complete throwback to a time long before himself. He seems to have such ease when he sings and his rasp is so cool. Luke appreciates how he attacks the mic. Katy said he has the "it" factor. Lionel praises his stage presence.
Colt Glover sang Rock Salt and Nails by Flatt & Scruggs-- Colt has a great country voice, a cool vibe, and he comes across as so humble. He was nervous but his authenticity made up for it. Katy said he is the best country singer that they have seen so far and said he was top ten worthy. Luke said he was happy that Colt was there with them. Lionel said that they are going to teach him what to do with his hands.
**Let's see how I do, but I think these three are great talents!
Ryley Tate Wilson sang Dancing On My Own by Robyn-- At 15, wow, the poise, and the experience that he sings with is truly beyond his years. He is a well deserved four chair turn. Niall said Ryley my head nearly exploded, that was the best audition we've heard so far. Kelly said your tone is incredible. Your runs weren't planned, they were felt. Chance said I loved how you improvised with the runs and how much control there was. Blake said you pick me as your coach, and I will quit coaching after this season because I got you on my team. Ryley picked Niall.
Jamar Langley sang Try Me-- Jamar has that old school R&B throwback type of voice and vibe. I knew Blake would be drawn to that type of artist, but I am excited to see what Chance is going to do with him. Jamar chose Chance.
Allie Keck sang Paris (Oohh La La) by Grace Potter & The Nocturnals-- Blake turned right away and then Kelly turned. What happened with Niall and Chance? She was amazing. She totally rocked, and I loved her voice and her attitude. Kelly loved how her voice projects. Blake said I am thinking vintage rock from the 70s and 80s and do a twist on it. I wanna blow it out one last time as a coach and I wanna do it with you, come on Allie. Wow! Allie chose Kelly, I would have gone with Blake on this one.
Jayda Klink sang No Air by Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown-- Wow, no one turned, she was good, but there were some nerves.
Walker Wilson sang Hurricane -- I really liked Walker's voice, I am somewhat shocked that no one else turned. Blake said you have a grit to what you do. You're on the right track with that sound. Kelly said yea that's what it is, I'm scared to go up against you Blake, I'm trying to help out grandpa on his last season.
Ali sang Killing Me Softly with His Songs-- Kelly and Chance turned straight away. I like how she transformed the song in so many cool ways. Chance said I am so stunned to hear that you're hearing impaired. Chance said I would love to hear you sing some gospel and Ali said she grew up singing it. I am shocked that she went with Kelly.
Manessah Simone sang I Will Rise Up by Andra Day-- Chance was the only one who turned. Manessah returned after not getting any chair turns last season. I feel like she definitely took the judges notes and worked on her verbratto. I'm happy for her.
Jerome Godwin III sang pov by Ariana Grande-- His voice is so unique and what an original song choice. Kelly and Niall both turned. Niall loved the dynamics in his voice. He ended up choosing Niall.
EJ Michels sang Easy on Me by Adele-- His tone!!! OMG! I love his full voice. He also has an amazing falsetto. Chance turned and was real surprised, and Blake turned just before the end of the performance. Chance said I want to hear you sing some Maxwell or D'Angelo. Blake said hi EJ, I know where Utah is. Your voice is so raw and honest, emotionally it kind of had me on the edge. Chance said I might be 100 from the field. EJ chose Blake!
Sophia Hoffman sang Amor Eterno-- Kelly advised her perfectly she needs to pick a song that shows the highs and lows of her voice. I think her performance was too old fashioned and pageanty.
Laura Littleton sang Sign of the Times by Harry Styles-- Three chair turn, she was good, she has that folksy voice. Everyone turned except Chance. Blake is upset that Kelly blocked him. Kelly said it's like Dolly meets Florence and the Machine. Niall said I like the natural shakes you have in your voice. The song is not an obvious pop song, it's a bit left. And you're a bit left. Laura picked Niall..... bahahaha Kelly wasted her block.
Here's my best dressed list for the Oscars this year!
nb. this is in no particular order.
Monica Barbaro in Elie Saab Haute Couture, Monica is stunning in a plunging v neck dress in light blue and maroon.
Ana de Armas appropriately channeled "Old Hollywood" in a scalloped mermaid style Louis Vuitton gown
Austin Butler is my pic for Men's wear this year in sleek black velvet Saint Laurent
Elizabeth Olsen is sultry and sexy in a gorgeous halter back cowl neck black Givenchy gown
Fan Bingbing who hasn't attended the Oscars in years dazzled in a silver/ champagne and emerald green Tony Ward Couture gown. The complete ensemble was reminiscent of Old Hollywood.
Vanessa Hudgens was simple, yet stunning in a strapless Chanel gown complete with her engagement ring
Nobel Peace Prize Winner Malala made her Oscar debut wearing a gorgeous silver hooded Ralph Lauren gown
Janelle Monae is always beautiful and always so unique, her ensemble tonight was no exception. Just look at this gorgeous Vera Wang gown adding a pop of color.
Fave couple of the night --- Nicole Kidman (who is almost always on my best dressed list) and her sweet hubby Keith Urban. Nicole looked exquisite in a one armed Armani Prive gown. How super gorgeous!
One of the most exciting things I heard about tonight is that Jej Vinson who was on Team Kelly in Season 16 (2019) is back, but as part of a group called Sheer Element. Remember Jej? Cause I do. They kicked off the show. Sheer Element sang Leave the Door Open by Silk Sonic-- They have so much range and when they are singing full voice it sounds like ten people. This was magic. Kelly is shocked! Niall said we were all trying to guess, how many parts is this? Niall said it made me feel. Chance said I can tell you guys have done this for a while because it sounds so tight. Kelly said you're picking a coach, not to teach you anything, but for song selection. Niall says I was in a group. Blake said really? You must be good at picking songs and putting harmonies together. He is really pushing for Niall. Blake is the only one who did not turn.
Carlos Rising sang Change the World by Eric Clapton-- Blake turned right at the start and Kelly turned at the very last minute. Blake liked that he didn't sound like Eric Clapton doing that song. Niall said I am looking forward to seeing what you will do with him Blakey Boy. Kelly made a good pitch but Carlos is totally in Blake's wheelhouse as an artist. Carlos chose Blake.
Alex Graham sang She Had Me at Heads Carolina-- No one turned, he had some shaky vocals, I think it came down to nerves like Niall said.
Magnus sang Sara Smile by Hall & Oates-- Oh my goodness! I am so shocked that only Chance turned. He was so good. Chance said I am so excited to win this show with you. Blake said the performance got better as it went along.
Kala Banham sang Both Sides Now by Joni Mitchell-- Kala has a beautiful voice. She wants to work with Kelly, and I see that Niall blocked her. Niall said I used my one and only block on you, and I'd love to grab a guitar and go write a song with you. Kelly went over and hit Niall with her Team Kelly jacket. Chance said I'd like to bring you some stuff the other coaches haven't been exposed to. Kala chose Niall.
Neil Salsich sang Honky Tonk Blues by Hank Williams-- Love the rasp and growl on Neil's voice, I think he has some great versatility. All four coaches turned. Blake blocked Kelly, and Neil chose Blake.
Sorelle sang Good Old Fashioned Lover Boy-- They are really fun, I was somewhat put off by some of the harmonies but I think that they could grow. Blake and Chance turned, but they're gonna choose Chance, no big loss. They are okay.
Holly Brand sang Mississippi Girl by Faith Hill-- Holly is awesome, I love her voice and her style. She has a great personality. Niall loved her voice and the control. Chance said she hit veery note spot on. Kelly said she heard a mix of Faith and Carrie Underwood. Blake didn't turn and she opened for him when she was 10 years old! Blake told Holly to choose Niall, she ended up going with Team Kelly.
Tasha Jessen sang River by Leon Bridges-- Wow! I LOVE her voice. Blake and Niall turned at the same time. Chance turned at the last minute. Tasha looks so excited to meet Blake. Blake said that she grew more comfortable as the performance went on. He said I'd be damn proud to have you on the last Team Blake. Niall begged for her to be on his team. I love how he calls Blake, "Dad". Tasha said Chance was the first rapper she listened to. Tasha picked Blake.
Star Martin sang No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley-- Her voice was so pretty, but no one turned. She declared that she would be back.
Ross Clayton sang Blue Ain't Your Color by Keith Urban-- He has such a country rock voice! This was so good, love a good four chair turn. Niall turned everyone's chairs around and said he has so much soul in his voice, and that he came up on a show at the age of 16. Blake made the, this is my last season pitch. Niall made a convincing pitch though and scored his first team member.
Michael B sang Save Your Tears by The Weeknd-- Michael is a throwback type singer. I could see him rocking out to some 80s music. Niall is the only one who turned, and I think this could be a dark horse in the competition.
D Smooth sang Perfect by Ed Sheeran-- He made this song his own and it was pretty cool. He reminded me a little but of J Holiday. Kelly turned and Niall turned right before it was over. Kelly said he sounded like Brian McKnight. Niall said Perfect is such a hard song to sing cause you can't take a breath and he kept taking it up a level. I totally agree with that. He chose Kelly!
Emily Ryne sang The First Cut is the Deepest by Rod Stewart-- No one turned but she had some funny Blake stories that she shared.
Alex Whalen sang Help Me Make it Through the Night-- He had such a unique sound. It's cool that he is from London but living in Florida now. Blake said I have never worked with a country singer from London. Chance said he liked his swag and joked it's his last season too just like Blake. Alex picked Team Blake.
NOIVAS (Savion Wright) sang A Change is Gonna Come by Sam Cooke-- Savion has such an amazing gift, you feel his passion for the song, and music. He has great dynamics, well deserved four chair turn, disappointed that Blake was blocked. His voice reminds me a little bit of Stevie Wonder. Chance said you're an incomparable talent. Niall said you gave us so many moments and I loved your passion, you reminded me of Stevie Wonder. Savion said I was gonna go with you Blake. NOIVAS picked Chance but I know someway, somehow -- he is going to make his way to Team Blake.
I am actually really pumped for American Idol this year. I heard the talent is stellar. What I have decided is that this time around I am going to pick my top five from each audition show. They will not be in any particular order. We will see how my picks compare to who makes it past the "Hollywood" or "Vegas" week and goes to the somewhat "Live" shows.
Episode 1:
Colin Stough sang "Simple Man" by Lynard Skynard-- I could tell right away that Luke really liked Colin, he called him raw and real. Colin says his mom signed him up to audition. Katy tells Colin that he has star dust. What strikes me about Colin is his realness, the way he chooses to phrase the song. He is a storyteller.
Zachariah Smith sang "Hurts So Good" by John Mellencamp-- Zachariah and Colin are from the same town, Amory, MS, and they know each other. He is really good, I love Zachariah's passion and personality. He really goes for it with the performance and he has a southern rock type voice. I'd almost compare him to like a Kid Rock. Lionel tells Zachariah that he is not a gimmick. Katy thinks he is authentic.
Michael Williams sang "Talking to the Moon" by Bruno Mars-- I remember Michael from The Voice and I always felt like he should have got further in the show than he did. Katy is smitten with Michael. This is a great song for him, kind of predictable-- he needs to be careful with that, but this is a strong audition. Lionel says he is not just a pretty face, he is the whole package. Katy compares him to Shawn Mendes and Harry Styles and says he is top ten material.
Tyson Venegas sang "New York State of Mind" by Billy Joel-- This performance really left me impressed and I cannot believe Tyson is only 17! His voice is so unique. Tyson's mom says his first concert was Lionel and it inspired him to sing. Lionel says, Tyson inspired us. Katy says she felt so connected to the performance. The judges are all in agreement-- Tyson was so special that he is getting only one of four Platinum tickets.
Kya Monee sang "I'm Here" from The Color Purple-- Kya auditioned before on Season 19, and was friends with Willie Spence (who recently passed away), her duet partner in Hollywood. She is still coping with Willie's death. This is not a perfect performance, but wow, the passion. Sometimes things are divine and this is one of them. Katy said the performance was so connected to the pain.
Episode 2:
Jon Wayne Hatfield sang "Tell Me Ray" an Original Song-- Jon is clearly gifted as a songwriter and it is so beautiful that he is sharing his gift with all of us. Katy said what he shared today is so beautiful and so authentic. Luke said people at home get to watch you bare your soul on the show and they realize that they are going through something similar and that they are not alone.
Matt Wilson sang "For Tonight" by Giveon-- Matt is one of my personal favorites, I love the tone of his voice, it is so soulful. There's something that is really genuine. In fact, Luke says that is one of the most genuine, honest, and real performances I've ever witnessed. Katy loves his tone. Lionel speaks about his purity and believability.
Kaylin Hedges sang "I'm Already There" by Lonestar-- Kaylin is mature beyond her years, hard to believe she is only 15 years old. Her dad is in the military and deployed a lot, so this song is particularly meaningful for her. The show surprises Kaylin and her mom by bringing her dad there for her audition. Kaylin is so good that the judges give her a Platinum Ticket.
Nutsa sang "Lady Marmalade" by Christina Aguilera and "The Greatest Love of All" by Whitney Houston-- Nutsa is from the Republic of Georgia and has been on a lot of singing shows over there. She does have a theatrical Broadway-like type of voice, and it is a little bit dramatic and over the top, but I do think she has some talent. I think if she listens and takes good notes she could really progress in this competition. Katy thinks she is a little "too hot". Luke seems to really like her--- he calls her the "J Lo from Georgia".
Trey Lewis sang "Stone" by Whiskey Myers-- Trey is going to be such a fly under the radar person in this competition. You just don't expect it from him. He has a storyteller voice, and it's just so impactful. He is a mattress salesman who had a gunman go into his high school when he was younger and kill eight students and two teachers. He lost friends. Trey has a powerful voice! Luke says Trey reminds him of Chris Stapleton. Katy is very emotional and starts crying saying that things have to change.
Episode 3:
We Ani sang "Anyone" by Demi Lovato-- I remember We from The Voice and she was amazing even back then. Now she is at a whole other level, her tone is just incredible, especially when you compare it to her speaking voice. Lionel and Luke both think her voice is amazing, and Katy says, this is ridiculous, way to throw a curveball.
Marybeth Byrd sang "If it Hadn't Been for Love" by The Steeldrivers-- Mary Beth is another voice alum, and she will do great in the country forum. I absolutely love the rasp and the tone of her voice as well. The contestants this season have really strong and unique tones to their voices. Lionel says Marybeth just has it. Marybeth says she is inspired by Katy and Katy says she is a top ten for sure.
Olivia Soli sang "Hello" by Lionel Richie-- I love how Olivia took such a timeless and recognizable song and made it into her own. She's really talented. Lionel said I want to be the first to rush the artist. He loved how she took his song and made it into her own, and encourages everyone to do that. Katy said her voice is absolutely tremendous.
Preston Duffee sang "Something to Write About" an Original Song-- Preston has quite the story, and his original song is special. I think he has this quality about him that is relatable and I'd love to see him get further in this competition but there are some great male country artists he is up against. Luke mentions that but also says he could be a successful songwriter. I could totally see him taking that route. Lionel said he nailed it and Katy said she is looking at a young Luke.
Elijah McCormick sang "God Bless the Broken Road" by Rascal Flatts-- This was one of my favorite performances so far in the past few years of Idol. Elijah has such a sincerity and ease to his voice. He makes you feel what he is singing, and I think he believes it because of what he's been through. Luke says that last person I saw approach singing like you was Willie Spence. Lionel said that's what he was thinking which is why he was so overcome with emotion. It's interesting how he survived a car accident and Willie lost his life in one, and that the song was "God Bless the Broken Road". Elijah actually won a Platinum ticket from a contest during the American Music Awards.
