THE VOICE: S03 BLIND AUDITIONS E06

The Voice S03 Episode 06

 

Here’s where we stand so far on the teams: Adam – 11; Blake – 7; Cee Lo – 10; and Christina- 11.

 

First up:

 

Michelle Brooks Thompson –age 28 from Massachusetts. Her husband made it to the NFL but was dropped before he even touched the field for the first game. For her audition she sings Proud Mary. Cee Lo and Adam turn around when she hits the note in “proud”. She has a nice voice and it was a fun version of the song. Christina turned her chair around for Michelle’s last note. Adam calls her incredible; Christina said she was waiting for a crack and a flaw, but figured she would have to be an idiot to not see what was going on behind her chair; Cee Lo said it was a very seamless vocal. Which team does she go for?  TEAM ADAM!

 

Diego Val – Age 25, originally from Peru but lives in Miami, Fl.  When he was 8, he was afflicted with a disease that was supposed to cripple him for life. Since he spent so much time in the hospital as a child, he now works with a non profit organization singing to kids in the hospital. Such a dope guy. For his audition he sings Animal accompanied by the guitar. Cee Lo is the only coach to press his button.  He did a good job. It was a win for TEAM CEE LO!

 

Lauren Brooke – Age 24 from Paulie (sp), NY. They are playing country music in the background while talking about her, so I wonder if she sings country. For her audition she sings Cowboy Casanova.  She seemed to lose her confidence in this audition. She had good moments, but none of the coaches turned around. General consensus isshe was a little pitchy but with a little correction she could be good.

 

Suzanna Choffel – Age 32 from Austin, Tx (!!!!). For her audition she sings Landslide. Adam presses his button really fast. Her voice is really unique. She reminds me of a raspier indie version of Dolly Parton. Blake also turns around. Cee Lo said he could tell it was a grown woman singing the voice. Adam said its hard to come on stage and sound refreshingly unique, which is what she did. Between Adam and Blake which does she choose? TEAM BLAKE!

 

Michaela Paige – singing “Sober” for TEAM BLAKE

 

Ryan Jirovec  – singing “Amazed” for TEAM BLAKE

 

Dez Duron – 22 year old from Shreveport, LA, who also auditioned last season. He is back. For his audition he sings “Sara Smile”.  The girls are screaming while he is singing. He has a good voice and suddenly Blake presses his button. When he recognizes him, he yells out in surprise. Then he turns to Christina and says playfully “you don’t want that one” and she presses her button, it seems to spite him. LOL. That was awesome. Cee Lo is the last to press his button. Dez finishes his song and struts around the stage in celebration. They all fight for this dude. Christina just kept going on and on. LOL. And Blake had a serious man crush. I thought Dez was going with Blake for sure, but who does he go for? TEAM CHRISTINA!

 

VJ – Age 25 from Bellflower, California and he teaches music at a conservatory.  He wants to take the next step from being a teacher to a full fledged performer. For his audition he sings “Forget You.” He sings in falsetto a lot and has a high register. I just don’t think this was the best song for him. None of the coaches turned around. Christina said he was missing the spank in the song. Cee Lo said he had great taste in music. Then he gets up to sing the song and accidentally sings fuck. LOL. Then they sing the song together onstage. Good stuff. Honestly that probably left the best impression VJ could get from Cee Lo after not getting picked on a team.

Alexis Marceaux – 23 year old from New Orleans, LA.  For her audition she sings “Go Your Own Way”. I am not familiar with this song, but she reminds me a little of Cheesa from last season. Cee Lo is the only coach to turn around for her. He says her voice is wonderfully impeccable. It’s another team member for TEAM CEE LO!

 

Sam James – singing “Imagine” for TEAM ADAM!  I really liked this guys voice, even though he had about 10 seconds on screen.

Laura Vivas -  singing “Whataya Want From Me” for TEAM CHRISTINA!

 

Lelia Broussard – singing “We Can Work it Out” for TEAM BLAKE! She is really familiar to me. I wonder if she is related to Marc Broussard.

 

Brandon Mahone  – 17 year old from Chicago but living in Indianapolis. For his audition he sings “I Wish It Would Rain.” I love his tone. Adam turns around first. But the best part is his mom back stage screaming at the television like she is watching a football game. Cee Lo presses his button followed by Christina. They all feel his voice very experienced. No one felt he was imitating being a soul singer. Who does he choose? TEAM ADAM!

 

Jeffrey James – 25 year old from Indianapolis as well. For his audition he sings “A Little Less Conversation.” He has a good voice. Its really difficult to sing so many words at once and articulate to where anyone can understand. But no one turns around. Wow. That really surprised me. That sucks. I hate when Adam says you’re really good but he didn’t turn around.

 

Jordan Pruitt – 21 year old from Loganville, GA. Former Disney star that is tired of doing the kid Disney music. For her audition she sings “The One That Got Away”. Christina is the only coach to turn around. Afterwards she tells her she has been waiting for her and loved her falsetto parts.

Terisa Griffin – a lovely 42 year old woman. Already I smell a diva. LOL. She seems really nice. For her audition she sings “Someone Like You”. I love this song, so I wasn’t feeling the song, until it got to the chorus. Blake is yelling at Christina to press her button, and when she finally does, he pushes his as well. Blake tells her he was prompting Christina to turn around, but then thought to himself to hell with Christina. Who does she pick in the end? TEAM BLAKE!

 

Highlights for me: Sam James, Brandon Mahone, Dez Duron

THE VOICE: S03 BLIND AUDITIONS E05

Here’s where we stand so far on the teams: Adam – 9; Blake – 7; Cee Lo – 7; and Christina- 9.

 

First up:

 

Trevanne Howell -33 year old from Bronx, NY currently working as a receptionist with 2 kids. And really beautiful, reminding me a little bit of Kerry Washington. For  her audition she sings “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston. She did a really great job but none of the coaches turned around.

 

Collin McLoughlin – age 24 years old from Bedford, NY. For his audition he sings “Wild World” accompanied by acoustic guitar (he looks like john francis daley, sweets, from BONES).  Cee Lo and Blake turn around. Adam turns around as well. His voice is good and he landed his dream, so I hope his parents don’t frown too much on his dropping out of college, though he is getting closer to his dream, he still may be Blake said he was sold immediately. Christina said it was a little mellow for her, which is why she didn’t  push her button. It turns out to be a win for TEAM ADAM!

 

Joselyn Rivera – age 17 out of Pembroke Pines, Fl.  She was born prematurely, had a learning disability, was prescribed music from a specialist, and she blossomed. For her audition she sings “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson. I like the way she does her small runs. There is something about her I really appreciate. Christina and Blake push their buttons.  Blake makes a joke that Christina has made people quit music after they have met her. But in the end, she goes to TEAM CHRISTINA!

 

Benji – age 24 from Orlando, FL and a former Formula 1 race car driver.  For his audition he sings “Knocking On Heaven’s Door.” This guy has a nice voice and Adam recognizes it immediately.  When Benji scream sings “YEAH!” it pulled Cee Lo in and he pushes his button.  Adam said his dynamic was really surprising and said he could wind up winning this competition. Christina said she loves his screams with really great moments, and said she heard a little bit of Adam in his voice, to which Blake said he disagrees because he doesn’t hear a jackass at all. LOL. Whose team does he choose? TEAM ADAM!

 

Todd Kessler – singing “Maggie May” for TEAM CEE LO!

 

Ben Taub – singing “Feelin Good” for TEAM CEE LO!

 

Emily Earle – singing “Ring of Fire” for TEAM CEE LO!

 

Lorraine Ferro – a 52 year old woman with a great sense of humor out of New York City, NY. She is a voice coach, performance coach and a songwriting coach. Her energy is extremely contagious. She loves to laugh and it makes me want her to get on someone’s team. For her audition she sings “Skyscraper” and I felt it was ambitious until she got into it. She has power. Unfortunately no one turned around. It would’ve made a good show.

 

Mycle Wastman– 40 year old from Seattle, WA. And this dude doesn’t look 40 to me at all. His parents died very young so he was raised by his grandfather and unfortunately he passed away just recently. For his audition he sings “Let’s Stay Together”. Adam and Cee Lo turn around immediately! Soon Blake turns around. Mycle has a great voice. He reminds me a little of Adam Levine. And then suddenly he ends the song in this dope falsetto! This guy is very entertaining. He gets a standing O from Cee Lo.  Of course Cee Lo calls his “soul brotha” and says he is most excited about Mycle than anyone else today. Adam laughed that when he turned around he didn’t expect Mycle to look like he does.  Blake said he is the best vocalist they have heard today. Christina prompts him to make a decision. Mycle decides to go to TEAM CEE LO!!

 

It was a great episode. I am still waiting for that one person to really WOW me this season. There are a ton of talented vocalists, but I haven’t found the ultimate favorite.  Well, maybe. Trevin Hunte is really really good. We shall see!

THE VOICE: S03 BLIND AUDITIONS E04

Obviously I have some catching up to do, but here is the my synopsis of Episode 4 of the Blind Auditions for the Voice.

And here’s where we stand so far on the teams: Adam – 5; Blake – 5; Cee Lo – 4; and Christina- 7.

 

First up:

 

Melanie Martinez – a 17 year old photographer from Baldwin, NY. She is an artist through and through. She takes great photos and she is a singer. Tonight she sings “Toxic” by Britney Spears, accompanied by the guitar and the tambourine, which she played with her feet. Of course Blake Shelton turns around, followed by Adam Levine. I really dig her version. As she progresses, Cee Lo turns around. Adam compared her to Bjork, said she was amazing looking and he wanted her on the team. Blake said he didn’t hear anyone else when he heard her sing, he just heard her originality and uniqueness of her voice. Who does she pick? TEAM ADAM!

 

Cupid – age 32 from Lafayette, LA, singer of the “cupid shuffle”.  The “Cupid Shuffle” is a HUGE song that is played everywhere. Everyone loves is at the club, its played at weddings, and many types of parties, so I am surprised to see him on here. Again this just goes to show how fame in the music industry works. You can have a hit, but it doesn’t necessarily propel you to lasting stardom. For his audition song he sings his own song, The Cupid Shuffle.  He wants the coaches to hear him sing the song and have them think it sounds better than the original.  I think that this isn’t the best sound choice.  If you are trying to step away from something, why do the same thing?  Unfortunately no one turned around for him. Cee Lo asked him what he was doing the show, and then told him the song was awkward to do on this show.

 

Brian Scartocci – 26 years old from Austin, Texas (representing ATX!) For his audition song he sings “Isn’t She Lovely”. Adam, Blake and Cee Lo turn around at the same time. I really enjoy his tone. He does this really great scream towards the end and finishes the song by falling to his knees but bouncing back immediately. A very fluid move. Which team does he go with? TEAM ADAM!

 

Beat Frequency (Sean and Natasha) – a married duo from Vancouver, WA.For their audition they sing “E.T.” by Katy Perry.  Natasha started off really beautiful, and suddenly Sean comes in and he has a HIGH RANGE; as they sing, Christina presses her button, and I think she thinks they are both girls. They had cool moments during the song, and some weak moments. I think the best part of the performance was the end where they were singing the chorus at full strength. TEAM CHRISTINA!

 

Tyler Lillestol – age 23 from Riverside, CA and a former baseball  player with a passion for music. For his audition he sings “U Got It Bad” by Usher (I am reminded of Jonathas of last season). Unfortunately none of the coaches turn around for him.

 

Liz Davis– 25 years old from Madison, MS. She is a country gal! She looks like one of the girls from The Real Housewives of Orange County (not that I’ve ever watched it…) For her audition she sings “Here For The Party.” She has a great attitude and presence. Great Voice! Surprisingly Christina and Adam turn around first. Finally Blake turns around! Why wasn’t he first?? In the end she picks TEAM BLAKE!

                                                                               

JR Aquino– age 24 from Anchorage, AL who does not live in an igloo, who used YouTube as a vehicle to share his music with people all over the world. For his blind audition he sings “Just The Way You Are” by Bruno Mars. Christina and Adam press their buttons first. Cee Lo holds off til the last note to press his button. Adam said he sounds a lot like Bruno Mars. Christina said his pitch got her. Cee Lo explained why he pressed his button last is because of the pitch problems while singing “the way you are”. In the end it’s a win for TEAM CEE LO to which Adam boos him playfully.

 

Agina Alvarez- 22 originally from San Diego, living in Burbank, CA. At 10 she was signed to Sony Records, then at 18 she was signed to a Latin label. And then she was shelved. For her audition she sings “Turn The Beat Around.” As soon as hear her, I can hear a little bit of Cheesa. Honestly, it was a great audition, and no one turned around.

 

Nicholas David – a 31 from Egan, MN. He played with a band for a while when he was younger, drank a lot and ballooned to 300lbs. He met his future wife, had a child and began to focus.  For his audition he sings “Stand By Me.” Cee Lo is the only coach to turn around. I liked his version of Stand by Me. Adam said he was awesome. TEAM CEE LO!

 

Alessandra Guercio– 17 years old from Brooklyn, NY, attending a performing arts school. For her audition she sings “The Climb.” I think she will go far in the competition. She has a really good voice. Adam turns around first. Then Cee Lo turned around. Adam asked how old she was, she replied 17 and Blake barked in surprise. LOL. TEAM ADAM!

 

Adanna Duru – 15 year oldsinging “Edge of Glory.” TEAM ADAM!

 

Kelly Crapa – 15 year old singing “Sparks Fly.” TEAM BLAKE!

 

Paulina – 16 year old singing “You Make Me Feel.” TEAM CHRISTINA!

 

Avery Wilson – a 16 year old dancer from Hamden, CT. For his audition he sings “Without You” by Usher.  He has a great voice. 16 year old?? Adam, Cee Lo and Christina all turn around. When Avery hits this high note and holds it, Blake turns around. The only 4 chair turn around this episode! Adam said it was the most spirited reaction they have heard from the crowd. They really begin fighting for this kid. In the end he picks TEAM CEE LO!

 

THE VOICE: S03 BLIND AUDITIONS E03

As we kick off Episode 3 of The Voice with the coaches teams as follows: Adam – 2; Blake – 4; Cee Lo – 3; and Christina- 4.

First up:

Samuel Mouton – 19 years old from Fort Collins, Co. His family owns restaurants and they seem to have a good sense of humor. For his audition he sings Redemption Song, and this dude’s voice is killer with a rasp I love. Adam turns around immediately, followed by Cee Lo and Christina Aguilera. I wonder if they thought he was black because of the accent while he was singing. Christina said she would love to get to know him better to see what his “turn ons are” (more flirting by Christina), Cee Lo said he could tell he loves Bob Marley by the inflections in his voice while he sang, Adam said he impacted all of the coaches by doing something special by doing very little. Samuel’s choice? TEAM ADAM!

Chris Trousdale – Age 26 from Grand Rapids, MI who is a former boy band member of Dream Street.  His story is so familiar to many artists, whose music has influenced fans in many places and yet is working that 9 – 5. For his audition song he sings Glad You Came by The Wanted.  He moonwalked! He was commanding the stage, and his voice was a little shaky but no one turned around for him. Of course Christina was remorseful she didn’t pick him and then she got Blake to get up and show a little dance moves, to which he moonwalks! In the end they told Chris that it seems he is more of a dancer than a singer.

Nelly’s Echo – 32 year old from Baltimore, MA by way of Nigeria. His family fled due to the unrest, though they left their father behind because he was incarcerated for something he didn’t do.  His father had since been exonerated and came out with a brother in support.  For his audition he sings Ain’t No Sunshine accompanied with guitar.  Christina turned around first, fanning herself with her black lace fan. Lol. Adam soon followed suit. Christina said she had so much fun right off the bat and pointed out she was the first to press her button. Adam said the payoff was after the “I know, I know…”  Its down to the decision and Nelly’s Echo chooses to be on TEAM CHRISTINA!

2Steel Girls (Allison and Crystal Steel) – the mother-daughter duo out of Wellston, OH. This is a first for this singing competition. I really want them to be good. The whole family (brother and father included) perform together. The mother had to quit her job to come out and audition for The Voice. For their audition they perform Carrie Underwood’s Before He Cheats. Their performance was really entertaining. I love voices that blend well. Cee Lo and Blake turn around at the same time. It was a job well done. Adam called them a “freight train of angry, jilted women.” Cee Lo said equally they sounded really good but together really impressive. Blake said he wanted to be the guy to protect the mother daughter relationship in a savage angry world of entertainment. Who do they choose? TEAM BLAKE! I would’ve been really surprised if they picked Cee Lo. Of course, duo’s last season didn’t last long so we will see how long 2Steel lasts!

Lisa Scinta – singing Teenage Dream by Katy Perry ( I hate these fast auditions where they show 15 seconds) going to TEAM CHRISTINA!

MarissaAnn – singing Part Of Me (another 15 second blip) to TEAM CHRISTINA!

Loren Allred – singing When Love Takes Over by Kelly Roland to TEAM ADAM!

Domo- 26 from the Bronx, NY. She is a professional hip hop dancer. She has a list of accomplishments they run through, which made me laugh, but also it let me know that she has been working very hard and is ready for her chance to be in the limelight. For her audition she sings Don’t Cha, which I think Cee Lo wrote for his wife, and she released but then the Pussy Cat Dolls took it and took the charts by storm. Of course, Cee Lo was the first to turn around. She strut around the stage like she owned it and Cee Lo loved every minute of it.  She is a firecracker. She has great energy and a really positive attitude.  Cee Lo said he feels she is a better singer than the song even allows. Another win for TEAM CEE LO!  All of the coaches offer their “sympathies” it seems since with her he will definitely have his “hands full.” I think she is a great addition to the team, but we will see!

Nicole Nelson – a 35 year old self proclaimed hippie from Vermont.  For her audition she sings Hallelujah.  Adam was the first to turn, followed by Christina, Blake and Cee Lo. It was a great performance, but I would like to hear more from her.  Christina began with the pleas, Adam made it a point to say he turned around for her first, then Cee Lo gave praise to her voice.  Nicole began how she takes really good care of her voice, how she lives an organic lifestyle. Blake suddenly interrupts that he too lives an organic lifestyle, and Adam said the bull that comes out of Blake’s mouth is organic. All jokes aside, when it comes down to which team Nicole chooses, she ends up on  TEAM ADAM!

I think my favorites of the night were 2Steel Girls, Samuel Mouton and Domo. Will they be able to keep up the momentum into the Battle Rounds, or will the other artists rise to the top? We have a ways to go.

Next week The Voice airs on Monday  and Tuesday, bringing us more Blind Auditions. Until next time!!

THE VOICE: S03 BLIND AUDITIONS E02

its another night of THE VOICE and lets get right into it!

Adriana Louise – age 22 year old waitress/bartender from Brooklyn, NY. For her audition she sings Domino by Jessie J. She has really cool control over her voice. I would listen to her if she came out with an album. Cee Lo and Adam are the first to turn around. Christina and then Blake turn around. The second person to receive all 4 chairs and a great way to start off the episode. The coaches are really fighting for her in this episode with Christina making the most passionate plea, also throwing in that Cee Lo is “pervy”. In the end Adriana chooses TEAM CHRISTINA!

 

Casey Muessigmann – pronounced “MUSICMAN” The singing wrestler. He gets major points for saying 180 degree turnaround. LOL. A lot of people mistakenly say 360 turn around.  For his audition he sings Sweet Home Alabama.  This dude has a great soulful voice. I think he is one of the best country voices yet. Blake of course is the first to around. Cee Lo also turns around to Blake’s dismay.  Blake really enjoyed the “ass-spanking” as well as the southern rock country element. In the end Casey chooses TEAM BLAKE!

 

Aquile – A biracial kid, 24 years old born in San Diego raised in Wyoming. When he was 19 he was punched in the jaw and had his mouth wired shut until he was healed. Craziness. For his audition he sings Your Song by Elton John, one of my favorite songs. Christina and Adam immediately turn around.  Cee Lo turned around towards the end of the song. The guy will be the lady killer of the show methinks.

All of the coaches make their pitch, but Christina took a page from Cee Lo’s book and started in with the flirting saying she would love a “private show.” In the end Aquile goes with TEAM CHRISTINA! Hmm. She has a lot of vocal powerhouses on her team. I hope this isn’t his undoing. Her battles tend to be powerhouse against powerhouse and this dude is awesome but really smooth.

 

Ryan Fogarty – 28 year old dude from Nashville Tennessee and he is the Tour Production Coordinator for LeeAnn Rimes. Well that isn’t too shabby. That is some star power backing him. For his audition he sings Tomorrow by Chris Young.  You can tell he is a little nervous, but he has a nice voice. Unfortunately no coaches turn around for him. Cee Lo said “Wow what a surprise” and Ryan responded quickly with “I love country.”  That moment when the coaches find out that it’s a black dude singing country. LOL.  Ryan you don’t have to defend yourself!!!  It was a good audition. Blake said he was looking for something different than what Chris Young would do but it never happened.

 

Mackenzie Bourg – out of Lagayette, LA he is 19 year old who contracted a virus that shuts downs organs. Not good obviously.  For his audition he sings Pumped Up Kicks, and the guy also plays guitar. He has a really good indie sound. Cee Lo took his time to press his button, but when he did Mackenzie’s dad flipped out. Christina said she enjoyed his performance and was waiting for that “moment” but she didn’t hear it. Blake said he loved the Harry Potter vibe. Christina said he looked like Justin Bieber, but Mackenzie said “let’s go back to Harry Potter.” Another win for TEAM CEE LO! His last name is BOURG. Like the BORG. From Star Trek. Lol

 

Julio Cesar Castillo – the final artist of the night out of Chicago, who is hoping The Voice can help him break free of his musical roots. He plays in a Mariachi band to support his family.  His dad has epilepsy so it’s hard for him to get a job. For his audition he sings LA BAMABA, becoming the first artist to sing a song entirely in Spanish on The Voice. Blake turns around immediately. My favorite part of this show is when the family/friends celebrate backstage when a chair turns around. Cee Lo also turns around, and of course Blake hates this, calling him a “jackass.”  In the end Julio goes to TEAM BLAKE!

 

Alright another cool night of The Voice. I have one more episode to catch up on. Who were some of your favorites of the episode?

THE VOICE: SEASON 3 PREMIERE

 

Its another season of The Voice and I am late catching up. My band and I have been on the road. I debated back and forth whether or not I was going to continue blogging about the show because its a lot to devote hours out the day for a tv show. After watching the first episode, I was reminded why I love this show so much. So here we go. 

The mission: To discover and develop America’s next great voice.

Some changes to note before gearing up with the Blind Auditions:

Bigger teams – 16 artists per team

And a twist to be revealed later

 

First things first, there is another awesome song performance by the 4 coaches. I really enjoyed how well Blake and Christina’s voices blend.

 

Terry McDermott – Scottish rocker-dude living in New Orleans. He has a dope accent. He was in a 6 piece band called Drive Blind but they disbanded. For his audition he sings Baba O’Reilly by The Who. He has really good voice and great control in going from high notes to low notes. Adam, Cee Lo and Blake all press their buttons.  Blake said exactly what I was thinking when he told Terry that he would win it if he just gets up there and talk. Adam said he wants Terry to sing on his team, Cee Lo said he wanted Terry to rock on his team but in the end he chooses TEAM BLAKE! Awesome choice.

 

So… I’m guessing Purrfect the Cat is out of the picture. Now we have a bird? A Pink bird?

 

De’Borah – From Chicago Heights, IL and I’m not gonna lie. Her choice in dress and style of hair made me think she was a dude. Never judge a book by its colorful cover.  She grew up in the church. She reminds me of Whoopi Goldberg when she speaks. I can’t help but smile when she is on screen because she seems like a dope person to hang out with. She comes right out with it saying she is gay. Her song: Hey, Soul Sister by Train. She has a great voice. And I love her attitude. She might be a favorite of mine already. Christina and Cee Lo turn around at the same time. These coaches are taking a while leaving everyone hanging til the last minute to turn around. She chooses TEAM CHRISTINA!

 

Gracia Harrision – from Virden, IL and the first Country artist and yodeler to audition. For her audition she sings I Want To Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart.  Adam turns around immediately, followed by Blake. She begins to yodel and Cee Lo turns around, to Blake’s dismay.  Adam said by far she is the best country singer on the show.  Cee Lo uses the word exceptional again (he loves that word) and he says he is a fan of the yodeling. Blake says he hates to think what would happen to her in the long run if she was influenced by either of the other coaches who turned around. He said she is what needs to be brought back to country music. She chooses TEAM BLAKE! Country doesn’t have a good track record on his team, so we shall see if it works in her favor. Adam jumps out of his chair and tells Blake he hates him. Lol.

 

Garrett Gardener – a 16 year old out of Ringwood, NJ.  His father was a jazz musician who played with many famous musicians, but died of cancer a couple years ago. For his audition he sings Have You Seen The Rain. He has a good voice, but unfortunately none of the coaches turn around. Blake tells him he has a really unique sound and tone, but lack of control when he travels from note to note. Christina calls him a cutie pie and loves his rasp, but she seconds Blake’s suggestions.  It seems tough for him to be on stage, but Christina runs up to him and hugs him. Adam grabs him before he leaves the stage and tells him that he is so much better than Adam was when he was 16.

 

Devyn Deloera – 20 years old from Snyder, Tx (WEST TEXAS BABY!!!). She looks like she needs to be an actress. A really beautiful girl. For her audition she sings “Ain’t No Other Man” by Christina Aguilera. Christina pushes her button.  Then Adam and Blake press their buttons.  She put forth a good effort with such a hard song. Christina said she wants to nourish her talent, Adam said it was ballsy and a courageous choice, Blake said she made him. Devyn asks which coach is going to keep her around, and who will keep in contact with her after the competition. Christina dodges by saying it’s a matter of keeping up with conversations, but Adam says his label signed Tony Lucca after Season 2.  Christina says she has label connections, to which Adam says he HAS a label. Blake says that he took Dia Frampton on tour but hasn’t had the chance to work with Jermaine Paul because he is still doing press from WINNING last season. Funny no one mentions Javier Colon though. She ends up with TEAM CHRISTINA!

 

Bryan Keith – 22 year old from the Bronx. His father is a grammy award Latin singer, but he doesn’t want to use his father’s connections.  For his audition he sings It Will Rain by Bruno Mars.  Blake turns around, followed by Christina, followed by Cee Lo, and finally Adam, to be the first to get all 4 coaches! He has a really great rasp and a clear voice.  Adam says he is very special, Cee Lo says his voice has all the qualities he aspires for, Christina says he is a raw quality and gift, and Blake says he knows Brian is the real deal because he sounds like the same guy from the start to finish, not like an singer trying to emulate someone else. In the end he goes with TEAM ADAM! He almost had me as a huge fan for this episode until he said he “felt like something like that would happen.” I’m hoping he isn’t overly cocky for real, because that always turns me off from great singers.

 

Danny Rosa – from last season, he didn’t make it. I remember him as well. I hope he gets to move on. For his audition he sings Somebody I Used to Know by Goteye. He sings a really cool version, kind of outlaw bluegrass or something. Cee Lo and Blake turn around and they freak out because they recognize them, which I think intrigues Adam and Christina.  Adam rushes the stage afterwards to hug him. BEST MOMENT  of the episode. Adam said one of his biggest regrets was not giving him a hug.  Cee Lo said he sounded cool as a muthafucka. Lol. Which they beeped.  Then the coaches go on about how not to give up on your dream. In the end, he goes to TEAM CEE LO! Now how will Danny fare when Cee Lo has favored aggressive performers in the past? I think Danny will go far. He is a pretty inspirational guy.

 

Anita Antoinette – a 22 Jamaican girl singing No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley. She looks like she can sing. And she is really beautiful. She sang her heart out but none of the judges turned around. Adam said she is a great singer with a great voice, but the spirit of the song wasn’t being delivered. She requests to sing it a capella, to which they let her, and she begins a more mournful tone. Which I feel changed the whole feel of the song. The band was playing a happier tone which didn’t really allow for the feeling she began to emote.  The audience stands up and cheers, along with the coaches (minus Christina). As she steps off the stage, Blake asks Anita to come back next year.

 

Joe Kirkland -  24 year old from Fort Worth, Tx.  He was signed to a label with a band as a musician, the lead singer bailed, he stepped up to the plate to sing but the label didn’t believe in him so they were dropped. For his audition he sings Gives You Hell, to which Adam Levine and Blake Shelton turn around. He reminds me of the lead singer from Blink 182. He has good sound. Christina was eager to see what he looked like. Adam said he has control over his aggressive tone and he has never had anyone like that on his team. Blake said he is a believer and thinks that he has star quality. Blake said he also wears vests, matching when they do duets together. He ends up on TEAM LEVINE.

 

Jessica Sharpe – 23 year old out of Greensboro, NC.  A hairdresser who also sings in a cover band and is “big stuff” in Greensboro. She is cute with a fun personality. She sings Son of a Preacher Man.

Unfortunately no one turned around for her.  Christina said she was waiting for the magical moment to happen but it didn’t. Blake said she needs to promise that she will try out for Season 4 and Christina again went up to offer a warm hug.

 

Trevin Hunte – 18 year old from Queens New York. The part of his story that gets me the most is when he spoke on the opportunity he had to attend a performing arts school, on condition he had 4 recommendations from his teachers. He acquired 3, but the 4^th teacher he approached told him he was wasting his time. Who says that to a kid? But Trevin mustve had more than 4 teachers he knew. Someone else could’ve written that recommendation right?  For his song he performs Listen by Beyonce. What a song to choose. And Christina  immediately turned around, followed by Blake. Then Cee Lo. What a fucking voice. This dude took that song and ripped it to shreds. He ripped it. I replayed this twice. Blake screamed at Adam to press his button, but he didn’t. Christina said she was completely blown away so please pick her. In the end he went with TEAM CEE LO! MAJOR CONTENDER HERE.

 

My favorite performances of the night go to Terry McDermott and Trevin Hunte.  Can’t wait to see more of them!!

 

THE VOICE: THE FINALS

SEASON 2 EPISODE 19

I can’t believe this journey is almost over. It is the Finals of The Voice and our 4 hopefuls looked really good tonight. Jermaine Paul and Chris Mann were wearing suits, Juliet Simms was looking extremely elegant in a red and gold gown (team cee lo repping the REDZONE) and Tony Lucca rockin the vest and a hat, like usual.  Each artist has put in so much work to get to this point and tonight one person will stand out above the rest. They will perform a solo tribute to their coaches, then they will sing a song with their coach AND sing a song that will be used for the voting proces tonight. And of course, we won’t find out who wins until tomorrow.

THE IMPORTANT PERFORMANCES

Jermaine Paul of Team Blake is first tonight. He is representing all of the background singers who want to be in the spotlight and recognized for the talented artists they are.  Tonight he sings “I Believe I Can Fly.” His vocals were steady and point, but I was ready for the choir (St. James Concert Choir) to come in because the song sounds so empty without it. There was a moment where he held the word “FLY” and it was just one of the highlights of the song.  Christina said he sings with so much heart and emotion and that is what this show is about. Cee Lo said the presentation was perfect. Adam said it was elegant and pretty. Blake said his heart is in his throat. He said he has listened to the song before but he never really heard it until tonight. 1-855-VOICE-01

Tony Lucca (Team Adam) singing 99 problems by Jay-Z. Okay I was skeptical of this but I am digging the vibe he had. This was like an O Brother Where Art Though moment. It was fun and a cool interpretation of the song. I can hear this in a movie.  Christina was hating. Haha. She said she felt it was derogatory to women. Adam tried to say that they were talking about life, not women. Then he said he loved her, took off his flannel and the black shirt underneath had Team Xtina in red glittery letters. @Kuriboi2k6 pointed out to me that Tony’s performance was actually a cover of Hugo’s version of 99 problems. Check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onDh4P1cE2E 1-855-VOICE-03

Chris Mann (Team Xtina) singing  You Raise Me Up by Josh Grobin. This is the perfect way for him end his time on the voice. This song is so sweet and his voice has never sounded so good. He was accompanied by the James Burrows High School Choir. Cee Lo said he was by far one of the most incomparable vocalists he has ever heard and he is so cool ending with “If I ever fall in love, please sing at my wedding.” AND he brought his coach to tears 1-855-VOICE-04

Juliet Simms (Team Cee Lo) singing Freebird by Lynyrd Skynyrd. She was wearing the red gown she started off in early in the episode with a long flowing cape enveloped in a red haze and she looked awesome. It felt like I was watching a performance that should’ve been at Woodstock. She was alright (performing while sick) but she got me when the end of the song came belting out the lyrics with all of her heart. Cee Lo said with Juliet Simms on his team he has NO PROBLEMS, standing up showing off the white t with black letters reading the same thing.  1-855-VOICE-02

THE TRIBUTES 

(where contestants sing their coaches songs)

Juliet Simms (Team Cee Lo) – singing Crazy. Not my favorite performance at all, but I have to remember she was sick.  I kind of grimaced through this performance. I know she can do better. FEEL BETTER JULIET!

Chris Mann (Team Xtina) –  singing The Voice Within. This guy is definitely going to have a deal. He is going to take on all of Josh Grobin’s fans. Afterwards, Christina went up on stage and said “This is a real man! That respects women!” Wow she just keeps diggin into Tony Lucca.

Jermaine Paul (Team Blake) - singing God Gave Me You. I actually liked his performance. He gave it a little southern drawl at times and he had fun with it.

Tony Lucca (Team Adam) - singing Harder To Breathe. This was the best I have heard Tony tonight.  There were a lot of words in the song and I think he ran out of breath while singing, which caused him to laugh a little bit. But he did a good job.

THE DUETS

(MY FAVORITE PART)

Chris Mann and Christina Aguilera sing a“The Prayer” As soon as Christina started singing I couldn’t  stop smiling. One, Christina’s boobs looked like they were going to spill out of her dress, and THIS DUET WAS AMAZING. Such a smart move. Chris has such a great voice when he is singing songs that are in his lane.

Juliet Simms and Cee Lo sing Born To Be Wild.  This was more in Juliet’s lane. She has a rock sound and needs to stick to it. She was rocking a black leather jacket with spikes and came in sitting on a motorcycle. This was a fun duet that had a stage set up to make it seem like a biker bar or back alley race.

Tony Lucca and Adam Levine sing Yesterday by The Beatles.  This performance reminds me of a 90’s rendition of Yesterday. I am sure all of the girls are going crazy. If Boyz II Men came out, then I would’ve gone crazy.

Jermaine and Blake sing Soul Man. These guys are tall. And they had so much fun singing this song. It was like Jermaine and Blake took us to church. I really like that Blake and Christina both went out of their comfort zones to perform tonight.

Who will take the crown as winner of Season 2 of The Voice???

Find out tomorrow.

Carson Daly also informed everyone in America that free download cards for certain songs from the Final 4 will be available at participating Starbucks. Go out and get em!

THE VOICE: SEASON 2 EPISODE 18 Final Four Cylons Revealed

No last chance performances. No saves. Each coach had 100 points to divide among their two remaining artists in however way they see fit, based on last night’s performance. This could get ugly.

But in true Voice fashion, they don’t give it to us straight off the bat. No, first Season 1 alum Dia Frampton of Team Blake performed her single ‘Don’t Kick The Chair’ feat Kid Cudi. Dia looked lovely standing on a staircase decorated with chairs piled on top of each other.  She did a really good job. This song is in heavy rotation on my ipod. I friggin love it. I like that we get to hear from Season 1 in this episode.

The first reveal was Team Xtina: Chris Mann vs Lindsey Pavao. Last night my favorite performance was Chris Mann. He ripped that song to shreds. Lindsey had a really great performance and it was a little more main stream so that may work in her favor. Either way I am sure these guys are in for a wild ride in the record industry. Christina split the 100 points even between her artists (50/50). With America’s vote the scores changed: Chris -104; Lindsey -96. The first Top 4 contender is Chris Mann. I didn’t expect that at all, but I am happy for him.  That was really close. And heartbreaking when Chris and Lindsey embraced  and she sobbed into his shoulder.

I can tell this is a “bittersweet” episode. (if I may quote the judges)

Next, Season 1 alum Vicci Martinez from Team Cee Lo performed ‘Come Along’ with Cee Lo. This is again my favorite song from Vicci’s EP she just released today.

The second reveal was Team Adam: Katrina Parker vs Tony Lucca. Last night I enjoyed Tony Lucca but Katrina Parker was my favorite singer. Adam split his points giving: Katrina – 40; Tony – 60. The reason? I didn’t really understand the reasoning. It made no sense to me. It was weird. I guess he feels a connection with Tony but he feels she is still incredible. Adding America’s vote:  Katrina – 92; Tony – 108. So Tony advances. If the coaches didn’t have a vote, America’s vote would’ve stood alone with Katrina – 52 and Tony – 48. Crazy. Congrats to Tony.

Season 1 alum Beverly McCllelan of Team Xtina, performing with Cyndi Lauper “Money Changes Everything.” This was crazy. Beverly has such a beautiful voice. I was really trying to figure out if Cyndi usually performs like this or if she a little tipsy. They had a lot of fun onstage. I am not an aggressive guy and these girls were chasing each other across the stage and then there was one point Cyndi hit Bev. Again I say Crazy. Lol. Cyndi was having trouble with her in-ear as the camera caught her trying to adjust it in her ear a couple times. It was an entertaining and weird performance.

Javier Colon, last year’s winner of The Voice, was the next performer singing “A Drop In The Ocean” off of his current album. That man hit some notes in this song!!

Next up was Team Blake’s elimination: Erin Willett vs Jermaine Paul. And today is Erin’s bday. Will Blake or America give her an incredible bday present or will this be the worst birthday ever? Blake divided his points for his teammates 50/50. He explained they are both trying so hard and doing everything they can do. He didn’t want to make that decision. America’s votes added: Erin – 77; Jermaine – 123. Okay I am sure its not the worst birthday present, but it sucks. I love that she pointed at Blake and said “Let’s get drunk!!”

So far, its been all guys to make it to the Top 4.

As I type this, I am nervous for Jamar Rogers. Give me one good reason to get mad and tweet “I AM NEVER WATCHING THE VOICE AGAIN!” And that would be a lie regardless of how this decision goes. But I am crossing my fingers. Will America or Cee Lo cause me to throat chop my television set? We shall see…

Before the commercials started, Christina Milian caught up with Jamar and Juliet backstage and asked if there was anything they wanted to say anything to each other. Juliet almost broke down right there. And that caused me to be okay if Jamar gets voted off. Because she has done really well throughout this competition and ROCKED THE FUCKING HOUSE last night. And she deserves this chance like anyone else. And her breaking down reminded me when I broke down crying backstage in front of Rebecca Loebe before my Battle Round against Nakia from all of the anxiousness.

Okay.

Team Cee Lo was up. Cee Lo first said that he has said many times that he has 2 of the best contestants on the show. Jamar and Juliet started crying before the results were announced and I really felt bad for the both of them. Can’t we just allow both of them to go on?? Cee Lo divided his scores as such: Jamar – 40; Juliet – 60. He said he wanted to be honest, critical and fair. He said Juliet’s performance last night was so beautiful, striking and strong. Jamar has been so consistent and America loves him. He said he couldn’t appreciate everything that Jamar did in that song and he felt it didn’t translate completely. With America’s vote:  Jamar – 79; Juliet – 121. A resounding roar of approval for Juliet. My heart is heavy.  I know it probably only came off this way on t.v, but after the results were revealed and Cee Lo joined the two on stage, it seemed Jamar gave him the dirtiest look ever. I think he was just feeling numb.

The Final 4 artists are: Chris Mann, Tony Lucca, Juliet Simms and Jermaine Paul.

Wow. Did you think any of these guys would make it to the Final 4 when this journey first started?

Maybe.

THE VOICE: SEASON 2 EPISODE 18 The Elite Eight

Craziness. Awesome performances. This is how I would describe this episode featuring the Final 8. So let’s get into it.

Tony Lucca (Team Adam) – singing How You Like Me Now by The Heavy. This was a solid performance. For me it didn’t go up or down, it just stayed consistent. Its not the type of music I would listen to and he honestly doesn’t have the type of voice I listen to on my ipod. But I really liked his suit.  Christina said she cleared the song for Moses, but it fell into Tony’s hands. She asked if Adam taught him the dance moves jokingly. Then she said if this doesn’t work out he and Adam could start a Britney cover band. Cee Lo said it was a pleasant surprise and he became a big fan. I am tired of all the girls screaming when Adam is about to speak. Or maybe its jealousy.  But Adam said this was the perfect song for him to perform tonight.  1-855-VOICE-01

Erin Willett (Team Blake) – singing Without You by David Guetta feat Usher. This is such a crazy song choice for her but she seemed to be working it out during practice and Blake said this could be her break out performance. Her low notes starting out were not in key and some of her high notes were flat. This wasn’t my favorite performance of hers at all. I get that this is an emotional song because of the recent passing of her father.  That is a terrible tragedy. She has such a big voice and she is a very talented singer. I just don’t think this was the right song for her. Billboard’s twitter account disagrees with me. What do they know? Lol. Christina said she was proud that she was emotionally involved in a song and that Erin did an original arrangement. Blake first complimented how beautiful she was. Then he said he would give anything to have a tenth of the talent she has and to have the strength  she would have. 1-855-VOICE-02

Chris Mann (Team Xtina) – singing Ave Maria. He said this is the way he came into the competition so if he goes out, he is going to go out with a band. This was an amazing performance. I couldn’t even type while he was singing. He definitely told a story with the power of his voice. I loved this. And he isn’t always my favorite but this was amazing. Cee Lo was the first judge to comment and he said his voice is so powerful, pure and perfect and said he was the epitome of the show. Adam said Cee Lo was totally right. Christian said she felt the heavens open up and she felt so moved.  She even got up out of her coach’s chair to give him a hug. 1-855-VOICE-03

Jamar Rogers (Team Cee Lo) – singing If You Don’t Know Me By Now. This was a really great performance. I really dug it. It was a cool mix of R&B and Rock. Adam said if you just set aside the competition aspect of this, he is purely a fan. Blake said it was by far the most laid back performance from him and he said it was a really good performance. Xtina said she enjoyed his run and she was motivated to get up there and start singing. Cee Lo, affectionately calling him J-Bird, and thought this was a great performance of a stripped down version of the song. He also said the story of his life would be a best seller, because it is a success story.  Sidenote: I feel that Wardrobe (the people behind the scenes who dress the artists) have a hat filled with photos of items of clothing. They draw from the hat and whatever comes out, they throw on Jamar. He was wearing a shiny vest, bright blue blazer with tails, and the pants to a baseball player’s uniform. 1-855-VOICE-04

Teams Adam and Cee Lo performed together tonight singing “”All These Things That I’ve Done” by The Killers.  This collaboration was the best team collaboration of the season. All of these vocalists really shined and complimented each other.

Jermaine Paul (Team Blake) – singing Open Arms by Journey.  There is no denying this man can sing.  He had a really great performance. Christina said he was a crazy talented vocalist. He came in and murdered the song. Cee Lo said he did a wonderful job and he is consistently impressed by him. Adam said he would like to congratulate him because he is no longer a background singer.  Blake told Adam that Adam should’ve said Jermaine was the guy to beat all along rather than saying “another guy” in previous weeks was the man to beat. 1-855-VOICE-05

Katrina Parker (Team Adam) – singing Killing Me Softly by The Fugees. She looks like a star to me. She really does. And her voice is so effin amazing. She sounded really good but I was wondering the whole time was she going to do the really recognizable breakdown Lauryn Hill.  And she did! And it didn’t come off karaoke at all, which I was afraid was going to happen. Blake reminded her she was sitting in a cubicle months ago and marveled at how she sounds so seasoned. Xtina said she has fallen in love with her over the course of the competition. She also said if she was her coach, she would’ve tried to make the song more “Katrina Parker” rather than try to follow everything that Lauryn Hill sang. Then she said she encouraged Adam to look at Katrina because she was a star. Xtina does not hold back. Adam said at the end of the day, she didn’t sound like Lauryn Hill, she sounded like Katrina Parker so he was beyond happy. 1-855-VOICE-06

Blake Shelton performed his new singing “Over”. It was a good song. The chorus was my favorite part. Blake totally towered over everyone on stage. He is such a tall guy.

Lindsey Pavao (Team Xtina) – singing Skinny Love by Bon Iver.  She is totally an indie girl so she is going for all of those type of songs. I wish I knew the song, but I’m not too familiar with his music.  This was the first time we got to see her play the guitar onstage. This was also my type of set up. I love acoustic songs. At first I didn’t like the way she was singing, but it started growing on me. Then I realized I had heard this song before. I don’t know if that made me like it more but by the end of the song I was a fan.  Cee Lo said he wasn’t really into Skinny Love, he was more into “big love”. He also said the closer she got to the microphone the more confident she became and she did a great job. Adam said he loved that everyone is so completely unique.  Blake said it was really good, but strategy-wise he had to commend Xtina for letting both of her artists go back to how they started. Xtina said she loved seeing her in a coffee shop setting, in her element with her guitar and she really got into the song. Then she got up to give Lindsey a hug. 1-855-VOICE-07

Team Xtina and Team Blake joined each other onstage singing Edge of Glory by Lady Gaga. Jermaine started this song off and it made me wish he had sung this tonight for his song. He killed that one sentence. Haha. Erin had sweet moments. So did Chris Mann. I would actually like to hear him do a rendition of this song too. Lindsey’s voice is so different that it felt like an extreme drop in volume when she would come in. Overall a fun performance.

The last performance of the night goes to:

Juliet Simms (Team Cee Lo) – singing It’s a Man’s World by James Brown. I started smiling when she started singing. She left the tiny gravely voice behind her and just sang. This was the perfect way to end the night. I hate that only one person from each team can go on to next week. Because she rocked the hell out of that song. The roar from the crowd sounded like a standing O. Adam said it was something special and unbelievable. He said she was the one to beat tonight. Christina said it reminded her of the Grammy performance she had when she sang that song. Cee Lo said she killed it. She murdered that record.  1-855-VOICE-08

The coaches have 100 points to divide between both of their artists. They wrote down their scores and we wont know until tomorrow after they reveal America’s vote. Who will the Final 4 be?????

 

‘The Voice’ Drinking Game Part 2

Brought to you by @ShieldsBrothers its another round of The Voice Drinking Game using hashtag #DrinkTheVoice

1. Every time you see @PurrfectTheCat CHUG A MILK =^..^= \m/ (thanks @PurrfectTheCat )
2. Whenever CeeLo says someone looks “exceptionally beautiful” DRIIINNNKKK. Drink twice if it’s a guy. (thx @Pavao_Army)
3. Anytime someone is freaked out by dancers …DRINK!!! Finish you drink if it’s @blakeshelton (thx @ALIYANKS2)
4. Whenever they “this is so hard” without a needed that’s what she said…DRINK (thx @jrufus09)
5. Every time you catch yourself staring at Xtina’s cleavage…DRINK! (thx again @A_RBB)…maybe just sip on this one…
6. Every time one of the coaches says a nice comment about one of the contestant and then says “BUT” DRINK! (thx@Aimeetruejello)
7. Every time they alude to @luccadoes past in the Mickey Mouse Club…DRINK!!!
8. Drinking every time the audience yells “I LOVE YOU!!!!!”…I’d drink twice if Adam looks annoyed. (thx @A_RBB)
9.  Anytime they make reference to “just being honest.” Or when they applaud the contestant for making the song “their own”…DRINK!!!
10. Anytime someone says, “I just love him/her/them SO much!” DRINK. X2 if tears are involved (thx @luccadoes good luck 2night!!!)

I will be playing on West Coast time this evening.  Remember to use #DrinkTheVoice when posting on twitter. And direct it to @ShieldsBrothers because they will RT and/or respond.

Tje Austin