‘The Voice’: Semifinalists Sing for America’s Vote
Season 13’s artists sang duets in addition to solos.
The live semifinals aired on NBC's The Voice on Monday night, with the remaining eight artists singing for spots in season 13’s finals.
Coaches Blake Shelton, Adam Levine, Miley Cyrus and Jennifer Hudson helped prepare their artists for the high-stakes evening. In addition to singing solo performances, the eight semifinalists were paired up for duets. Four artists will be eliminated on Tuesday night.
Team Adam’s Adam Cunningham was up first, singing “I’m Already There” by Lonestar. The song choice worked in his favor, allowing Cunningham to really focus on the vocals and lyrics. But Cunningham still struggles to stand out in this crop of artists. It was a solid but unmemorable start to the evening. Levine said that he deserves to be in the finale.
Chloe Kohanski and Noah Mac delivered the first duet of the night, singing “Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak. The song choice actually played to both of their strengths. Mac sounded particularly strong in his lower register, but both showcased their range. It was fun, but the duets don’t usually matter as much as the solo performances.
Team JHud’s Davon Fleming was up next, singing “Gravity” by John Mayer. Fleming has proven week after week that he can sing just about anything, and the notes from Hudson to really feel the emotions of the song paid off. He gave a captivating and layered performance, and he hit the high notes effortlessly. Fleming reiterated just how good of a performer he is.
Next, Team Blake’s Red Marlow sang “Go Rest High on That Mountain.” Marlow connected to the intense emotions of the song and delivered one of the strongest lyric interpretations he ever has on the show. It was an understated performance, and that worked. Marlow finally showcased some versatility.
In the next duet of the night, Fleming and Brooke Simpson sang “Earned It” by The Weeknd. Simpson and Fleming had even better chemistry than Mac and Kohanski, and the song choice suited them both. It was one of the best performances of the evening, and they put on a great show, delivering on both the vocal front and the performance front.
Keisha Renee from Team Blake leaned into her country roots, singing “What Hurts the Most” by Rascal Flatts. She made the song her own, spicing it up with well-placed ad libs and a soulful slant. It was an original and engaging performance. Shelton was very pleased with the outcome.
Cunningham and Marlow returned to the stage for a duet of “Can’t You See” by The Marshall Tucker Band. They made sense as a duet pair, but they didn’t blend very well. It was a lackluster rendition, and neither artist really stood out.
Team Blake’s Kohanski returned to the stage to sing Foreigner's “I Want to Know What Love Is.” It was a surprising song choice, but it worked. Kohanski rocked out and delivered a great vocal. She sang a stripped-down arrangement that really suited her voice, showcasing her artistry. Shelton said it was “iconic.”
Addison Agen and Renee sang a duet of Sheryl Crow’s “Strong Enough.” The two artists blended well and gave an entertaining performance. They made a great pair.
Team JHud’s Mac returned to sing “River” by Bishop Briggs. Mac once again proved to be not only a great vocalist but a great producer, crafting a stellar performance from start to finish. Mac’s performances always have momentum and little vocal surprises. This performance followed suit, giving viewers a little something different. Mac stood out, and Hudson praised the way he worked the stage.
Team Adam’s Agen returned to the stage to sing “Both Sides Now” by Joni Mitchell. Agen’s arc this season has been impressive, and her performances get better every week. This was a solid delivery that showed the full depth of her vocal abilities. She made the song her own, singing a gorgeous arrangement. Levine said she should win.
Simpson closed out the night with a powerful performance of “Faithfully” by Journey. She delivered an emotional rendering that showcased her strengths. She hit some big notes and left a lasting impression. It was a personal-best performance.
On Tuesday night, the four finalists of season 13 will be announced. What did you think of Monday night’s performances and duets?
