The three-time “Voice” champ has the best line-up of all four coaches. But he sent home two artists tonight! (Photo property of NBC)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
20 artists have survived the Blind Auditions and two brutal Battle Rounds to make it to the Playoff Rounds.
Here, each artist has one last chance to convince their coaches that they could move onto the Live Rounds!
With the Live Rounds starting on April 21, Adam, Blake, Shakira and Usher must make some heartbreaking cuts in order to build the strongest team. Who moved on? Who was sent home? Read on to find out!
Up first was Team Blake! He has the best team line-up this year. Audra McLaughlin was the first artist to represent this juggernaut team. She tackled Martina McBride’s “A Broken Wing.” Not only did she become the first artist to activate the Sway-bots, but also her vocals were so piercing and impeccable. A-
Former garbage man Ryan White Maloney tackled Shinedown’s “Second Chance.” I liked how he infused his energies into the song. However, I wished that Ryan did not attack the medley directly and pull a David Cook or Kris Allen and switch up the song. At this crucial moment, it was not a smart move and could cost him a spot on the show. B
Provo, Utah’s native daughter (and the newest member of Team Blake) Madilyn Paige was the third artist of the night. When I look at this girl, the phrase Danielle Bradbery-wannabe comes to mind. There were lots of pitch problems with her cover of Zedd & Foxes’ “Clarity” and she did not hold my attention as Michelle Chamuel did—two seasons ago. C+
Team Blake’s resident country king Jake Worthington tackled Jake Owen’s “Anywhere With You” for his hopeful ticket to the Live Rounds. His dedication to his girlfriend was sweet and I loved seeing his swagger on The Voice stage. I also would listen to his album over any of Idol’s male country vocalists (Scotty McCreery and Idol’s abysmal C.J. Harris and Dexter Roberts) in a heartbeat. In addition, he gets bonus points from me for being self-aware of his vocal performance. B+
Season six’s resident powerhouse, Sisaundra Lewis, closed the night by tackling an iconic song. I loved hearing her interpretation of Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind” because she beautifully showcased her ability to weave a story with her vocals. I hope that no matter the outcome of the show, Sisaundra receives a recording contract…so the whole world can hear her outstanding vocals! A+
After superb performances from all of his team members, Blake had to make some heartbreaking decisions. The three artists that he chose was Sisaundra Lewis, Audra McLaughlin and Jake Worthington. I am very happy with Blake’s decisions because he could be the first coach to fill all three spots in the finale.
Next week, Team(s) Adam, Shakira and Usher must face elimination!
