Team Shakira’s lone member tackled Aretha and Carrie for a spot in the Top Five. (Photo property of NBC)
By: Jacob Elyachar
Hundreds auditioned but only six acts made it to the Top Six rounds.
Who stole the show? Who floundered? Read on to find out!
Tonight, each of the remaining acts sang twice.
Team Blake’s Holly Tucker opened the show with a cover of Martina McBride’s “When God-Fearin’ Women Get the Blues.” Her performance was like a trip to Boresville, U.S.A. This was her weakest performance to date and if she did not improve, Holly should pack her bags. C-
Usher chose Keane’s “Somewhere Only We Know” for his remaining artist. The “Scream” singer wanted Michelle to deliver a message of love for the audience. This was an honest performance and she had great vocals. Shakira predicted that Michelle will have an amazing week and Adam added that he is impressed that she is carving out her own spot in the universe. A
The Swon Brothers chose to sing Darius Rucker’s “Wagon Wheel” for the Top Six. During their rehearsal, Blake warned them about the tricky lyrics. However, he should not have been worried as the duo delivered a good vocal. Unfortunately, the dancers distracted me from watching the Swon Brothers. I hope that the viewers do not punish the Swon Brothers because of this distraction B+
Sasha Allen tackled the Queen of Soul’s “Ain’t No Way”. It was a big risk for her tackle Aretha this late in the competition and she made the Grammy Winner proud. Her stunning performance made former coach Adam state that he still regrets eliminating her but added that it was her best performance yet. A
Team Blake’s final member Danielle Bradbery tackled Pam Tills’ “Shake the Sugar Tree.” By assigning Danielle these old school country gems, he has given her a guarantee spot in the final. This was a great vocal by Danielle and I believe she will go far after this season is over. A
Amber Carrington closed out Round One by tackling Skid Row’s “I Remember You.” This was an interesting choice by Adam and I thought that it would be a tough one for Amber. However, it was the best performance of the round and Amber shined as one of the best female vocalists of this season. A+
The Swon Brothers kicked off Round Two with a cover of Merle Haggard’s “Okie from Muskogee.” As much as I like the Swon Brothers, this was a bad choice by Blake. I was bored completely. I hope that their fans because this was their worst performance on the show. D+
Holly Tucker returned to the stage to tackle Rascal Flatts’ “My Wish.” This might be her swan song but Holly gave it her all and impressed me with her superb vocals. B
Michelle got a huge surprise when Taylor Swift appeared her during rehearsal. When Michelle sang the song to the Grammy-winning artist, Taylor was getting down and approved her cover. Fans loved seeing Michelle rock out this season and the lone Team Usher singer definitely scored a vocal touchdown with her cover of “I Knew You Were Trouble.” A+
Amber and Danielle tackled two country icons. First, Amber Carrington tackled Patsy Cline’s legendary “Crazy.” It was an interesting song choice for her and she delivered it really well. Danielle tackled Sara Evans’s “A Little Bit Stronger.” Despite being pitchy during rehearsals, Danielle made Sara Evans proud and delivered one of the greatest notes in the competition’s history. (Amber=A-; Danielle: A)
Sasha Allen closed the night with a song that Shakira chose for her. The Latin superstar chose Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats.” Sasha took her moment on stage and delivered a powerhouse performance that will carry her into next week’s semi-finals. A+
Tomorrow night, Cassadee Pope returns to the show and only one contestant will leave the show.
