Pharrell, Adam, Blake and Gwen take the stage as “The Voice: Season Seven” Battle Rounds continue (Photo property of NBC)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
Ok! Who thinks The Voice needs a fifth coach?
After watching last night debacle where the coaches sent home several powerhouse singers (we miss you already, Maiya Sykes & Amanda Lee Peers) over average or abysmal singers, I think the show needs a Wild Card coach.
They need someone who is a former executive (Jimmy Iovine & Kara DioGuardi), a music manager (Simon Cowell & Sharon Osbourne), a songwriter (Diane Warren or Linda Perry) or a music blogger (myself or Tyler Oakley) that would be able to compete with the coaches and give deserving artists one final chance, also a chance to avoid the Knockouts! Without a fifth coach, the show would lose more ratings and fans!
Now back to the Battles!
The first battle of the night belonged to Team Pharrell’s Taylor Phelan and Jordy Seacry. While Jordy caught the attention of three coaches, Taylor was a four-chair-turn! Pharrell chose them to duke it out because he wants to see an Indie Rock versus Pop battle. They tackled The Script’s “Breakeven.” Alicia Keys also gave them incredible advice and was very worthy of becoming a future coach!
During the battle, Jordy showcased that he was a great storyteller…but in all honesty, I was moved by Taylor’s vocals. During the coaches’ commentary, Gwen stated that it was a “class” performance and she got lost in the performance. Adam liked Taylor’s stage presence and Blake added that Taylor’s attack was excellent! Pharrell decided to listen to Adam and Blake and selected Taylor to move on!
Team Adam’s first battle involved Alessandra Castronovo and Joe Kirk. It was an interesting match-up! The Maroon 5 front man chose Rihanna’s “Stay” as their battle song. Both artists seemed nervous and Adam did his best to get his artists to open up. He hoped that this battle would be a show-stopper.
From the word go, Alessandra’s stage presence and vocals caught my ears (loved that long note)! However, Joe matured as the performance went on. This left Adam with a heartbreaking choice! He chose Alessandra over his honorary brother, Joe! As he left the stage, Pharrell comforted Joe and advised him with two simple words: “Keep going!”
I loved the vibe from this performance and both men did not hold anything back! Menlik was in his element and Troy entertained the crowd. Also, their harmonies were impeccable! Adam praised Menlik’s ability to be diverse and added that both of them were the most improved of the group. Gwen stated that she dreaded her decision all day! But, she chose Troy to move on! However, Adam and Pharrell dueled for Menlik to join their team. He decided to pick Pharrell!
Next week, “The Voice: Season Seven” Battle Rounds continue!
By the way, we want to welcome back Christina Aguilera to the show! You have been missed! I cannot wait to see Adam, Blake, Pharrell and Xtina back in action in Season Eight!
