The Voice: Season 3 of “The Voice” is a Celebration of Life

There’s a particular reason why I love “The Voice” so much more than any other reality music show I’ve seen thus far. This show, from its pilot motto, showcases you for only your voice from the get-go. But, as time has gone on, I’ve realized that it takes just more than a voice for America to fall in love with you. It’s about celebrating your voice, using it to encapsulate you and your whole persona. It’s about Character. Personality. Charisma. Connection. Emotional Depth. Your voice to speak as millions.

Somewhere in the middle of the show, Blake said, “This may be the best episode of ‘The Voice’ we’ve ever had,” and he couldn’t be more right! It was easy to see that each contestant belonged on that stage and deserved to be there.

Sylvia Yacoub opened the show with a powerfully “controlled” and “refined” performance, as said by Adam, of Alicia Keys’ “Girl On Fire” that helped viewers realize just how strong the rest of the performances will have to be.

Terry McDermott came second, singing Bryan Adams’ “Summer of ’69” which was a flawless rendition that brings you back to real rock ‘n’ roll. As the coaches said themselves, he reminded us all of what we all genuinely love so much about rock ‘n’ roll.

Melanie Martinez’s unique rendition of The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” projected her forward at a time she most needed it. There’s something that sets her apart from all the prior softer, indie performers, and that’s her unique ear and attention to detail. She brought an emotional depth, a soft fragility, and just a haunting cool aspect to the song, as Cee-Lo himself says it was one of the coolest things to happen on the show all season. [Her single also managed to snag the #8 spot on the top iTunes singles. Awesome!]

I have to say I was waiting for something to like about Cody Belew, and he finally showcased why there’s so much to love about him last night. Performing a male, diva-fied version of Beyonce’s “Crazy In Love”, he was able to strut across the stage without looking weird or awkward at all. It’s clear he can sing, and that by doing this performance, he embodied everything he himself was–he wasn’t trying to be anyone but himself. As the coaches said, he is a light for all to just be themselves, and have everyone love it.

Bryan Keith captured the true blue-eyed-soul with Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind”. There was such an ease he portrayed over the stage, as listeners were naturally drawn to his silky and gritty voice. Bravo.

Amanda Brown brought a perhaps lesser-known song to stardom, singing Grace Potter & the Nocturnals’ “Stars”. She brought a sense of soul to an otherwise rock-driven anthem, crooning, swaying, and crying out to the audience. What a great platform for a great new song.

I have to say, I’ve had a soft spot for Nicholas David all season. His rendition of the Bill Withers classic “Lean On Me” pays tribute to all the real soul and gospel music out there. Like Blake said, “It’s almost like you’re watching a musical legend perform.” His ease beside the piano, accompanied by a robed gospel choir and clad in his own plaid pants and Jesus hair, added depth and volume to his performance. He brought cheers to the true soul music, even making Cee-Lo cry. He’s the real deal.

Trevin Hunte has been known to perform his amazing ballads, but he wanted to turn things around this week and bring something more upbeat. I was a bit skeptical, but he looked like he was having the most fun he’s ever had onstage singing Usher’s “Scream”.

Perhaps one of Cassadee’s best and unexpectedly moving performances brought to “The Voice” stage yet, she had the liberty to ask upon Blake to sing his and his wife’s Miranda’s song “Over You”, about Blake’s brother who died in a car accident early on in his life. This was such a “special” and “sacred” moment for her and the coaches, as Blake was taken aback, saying, “Cassadee, you just sang easily the most important and the most personal song that I’ve ever been a part of writing in my life. But you made me feel like I was hearing it for the first time, and words can’t express what that means. Ladies and gentlemen, you’re looking at an artist standing up here.” She couldn’t have chosen a better time to add this softer, slower country ballad to the stage to add to her pop-rock repertoire. She’s got heart, sweetness, and a vulnerability–what’s there not to love? [She also managed to snag the #1 spot for Singles on iTunes. She’s made it! :’)]

Dez Duron closed the night with a surprisingly incredible rendition of the Broadway classic “Feeling Good”, as recommended by Xtina. I think we can all agree that this song encapsulates all Dez is as a person and an artist. His smooth, warm voice accompanied by his overall sparkle in his eyes and melting-factor made us all feel good.

This night’s Top 10 episode of “The Voice” made me realize why there’s so much to love about this show. We’ve got 10 amazing artists that represent, and truly own their musical expertise. We’ve got people with personality, people staying a genuine tribute to legendary times, people who own their vocal registers, who remind us of the “spice of life” by remaining entirely different, creative, and themselves, and those who remind us of music’s purposes–not only to have fun, but to send a message, and to put your whole heart into it. The said-“Voice” captures everything life can offer you–warmth, joy, happiness, creativity, emotion. This night’s episode brought just that. Brava!

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