Mark Andrew’s intriguing cover of Bob Dylan’s classic hit caught the ears of both Adam Levine and Shakira. (Photo property of NBC, One Tree Media & Warner Horizon Television)
By: Jacob Elyachar
The Voice is back…. with a vengeance!
Some of the best undiscovered artists in the country traveled to Los Angeles to see if they could impress veteran Voice coaches Adam Levine and Blake Shelton plus newbies Shakira and Usher.
Dozens have tried and while some were unsuccessful, others were able to convince the superstars to turn their coveted red chairs around.
Here are the eight acts that made a big impression on viewers this week….
8. The Morgan Twins: “Fallin’”
The 29-year-old Rochester natives delivered an intriguing take on the Alicia Keys hit that pleased all four coaches. Eventually, they decided to join reigning champ Blake Shelton’s team.
7. Mark Andrew: “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door”
Nicholas David isn’t the only talented Minnesota resident that successfully appeared on the NBC hit. 27-year-old Mark Andrew delivered a rock and soul infused cover of Bob Dylan’s signature song that caught the attention of both Adam and Shakira. After hearing an offer from Adam, Mark was the first person to enlist in Team Shakira.
Shakira discovered a new Latina sensation named Cathia that could possibly give J. Lo and Xtina a run for their money. (Photo property of NBC, One Tree Media & Warner Horizon Television)
6. Cáthia: “No me Doy por Vencido”
The New York Latina artist captured the attention Shakira, Usher and Blake when she performed the Luis
hit. If Shakira coaches her well, Jennifer Lopez and Christina Aguilera may better watch out because Cáthia could steal their audience.
5. Sarah Simmons: “One of Us”
After Katrina Parker sang that song back in The Voice’s sophomore season, I thought no one would be able to touch that song. Sarah Simmons proved me wrong as she delivered a haunting cover that caught the attention of all four judges.
Midas Whale performed a superb cover of Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues” on night two of the Blind Auditions. (Photo property of NBC, One Tree Media & Warner Horizon Television)
4. Midas Whale: “Folsom Prison Blues”
Idaho’s Ryan Hayes and former American Idol finalist Jon Peter Lewis delivered a rousing and delightful cover of Johnny Cash’s hit. In addition, one of the highlights of their performance was Ryan’s accordion playing! Where would ever expect someone to play the accordion?
3. Jess Kellner: “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You”
The Austin native delivered a chilling rendition of the Elvis love ballad that made the newbies fall in love with her.
2. Kris Thomas: “Saving All My Love For You”
One of the biggest surprises of the season was Kris Thomas’ daring cover of Whitney Houston’s “Saving All My Love For You.” While he only caught the attention of Shakira, he surprised everyone with his impressive vocal range.
Judith Hill stole the show with her impressive cover of Christina Aguilera’s “What A Girl Wants.” (Photo property of NBC, One Tree Media & Warner Horizon Television)
1. Judith Hill: “What A Girl Wants”
Michael Jackson’s former background singer stole the show with her astonishing cover of one of absent Voice coach Christina Aguilera’s earlier hits that caught the attention of all four judges.
Next week, a familiar face returns for a chance of redemption and Shakira steps up her game to land more singers on her team.
