The Voice 26: Team Buble singer 14-year-old Jaukeem Fortson dazzles with Michael Jackson cover
The Voice 26 Playoffs end on Tuesday (Nov 26) with Team Michael Buble performing for a spot in next week’s Top 8 semifinals. In this new preview from NBC, Fourteen year old Jaukeem Fortson, the youngest contestant of the season, performs the Michael Jackson hit, “Man in the Mirror.”
Jaukeem is that rare 14-year-old singer who sounds seasoned and mature already. Typically on singing shows, the youngest vocalists are not ready for prime time and would benefit from a few more years of experience. But he performs like an old soul. He knows how to take the stage and win an audience over.
During the performance, he could have held back on the growls somewhat, but Jaukeem’s phrasing and and dynamics were on point. When he hit that key change in the middle of the song he already had the audience in the palm of his hand. Picking a Michael Jackson song is full circle–MJ at 12 years old exhibited much of the same preternatural ability.
“You just filled this whole place up with love”
Jaukeem’s former coach, Reba McEntire, said after the performance, “You put your heart and your soul into your singing.” She added, “I’ve always been a big fan of that song, but you made it yours.” Then she declared, “I love you with all my heart!” Jaukeem responded, “I love you too.”
Gwen Stefani said, “This is the first time that I’ve seen you unleash the beast.” She continued, “Your whole body language has grown so much in a couple of weeks. It’s unbelievable.” Snoop Dogg said, “You really took advantage of that song. You made it yours. You had a good time.” Snoop added, I’ve just seen you catch the Holy Spirit.” He described how when Jaukeem moved his foot in a certain way, he “caught the spirit.” He said, “That’s what it’s supposed to do. Your supposed to take Him with you everywhere you go.”
The young singer’s coach, Michael said, “You have the ability at 14 years old to execute. That’s the way you sang the song, the way you chose the notes. I just kept getting up and going, ‘oh’ you know? You just filled this whole place up with love.”
To find out if Jaukeem advances to next week’s semifinal, tune into The Voice Tuesday night at 9 pm ET/PT to watch the Playoffs conclude.
