The Voice 26 Recap: Playoffs 1 Live Blog Results with Videos
The Voice 26 Playoffs kick off tonight with a one hour episode featuring Team Gwen Stefani and her celebrity mentor, Machine Gun Kelly.
After all five of her team members perform, Gwen will have the heartbreaking task of choosing only TWO singers to advance to the LIVE semi-final round. Next week, the remaining teams–Michael Buble, Reba McEntire and Snoop Dogg–will will compete for a chance to sing in the semis and maybe compete in the Grand Finale on December 9 and December 10. Carson Daly hosts.
The Voice 26 Playoffs Top 20 Preview (Photos, Video)
The Voice 2024: Full Season 26 Schedule (Updated 11/18)
Jose Luis – No More Drama by Mary J. Blige
Jose shared his road to self-acceptance–being himself without caring what others think. He got bullied when he was young. Music was an escape. Gwen suggests that he be less “performy.”
The coaches mention that the singers have in-ears for the first time. “They can’t hear us.” His outfit is tasteful while also being fabulous. He does his own thing without imitating other artists. His phrasing and build and well placed growls work for the performance. He finishes it off with huge dramatic notes.
Snoop calls him a star. Reba compliments his vocals and charisma. Gwen calls him tasteful and unbelievably talented.
Jake Tankersley – The Painter by Cody Johnson
Gwen stole Jake from Team Snoop. His song choice is dedicated to his wife Ashley. Gwen wants him to open up his face. “It’s all feel,” says MGK. He suggests he be “mysterious” like Johnny Cash.
It’s a sweet song choice and a beautiful melody. He performs it as a gentle ode to his wife. This is less Johnny Cash and more Glen Campbell. No big notes or fancy stuff. It’s authentically heartfelt and sung with a beautiful tone. He becomes emotional at the end.
Snoop is happy he’s still on the show. He thinks Gwen should choose everyone. Heh. Reba compliments his range. Gwen feels he took her notes and brought out more facial expressions and emotion.
Gabrielle Zabosky – Listen to Your Heart by Roxette
All the kids call Machine Gun Kelly “MGK.” Didn’t realize that was a thing. Gabrielle’s song choice is inspired by her experience breaking out of a toxic relationship. Gwen suggests that she push further into her character. “You’ve got to get lost,” says MGK.
She sings a piano driven arrangement of the song. Her voice is front and center as the band plays. She’s never sounded better. It’s a good song choice and arranged perfectly for her big rangy voice. She builds the emotion until she belts out big high notes. She’s an 80s/90s queen tonight.
Snoop is still mad that Reba blocked him from Gabrielle. Reba noticed that she looked “panicked” a few times. But it’s a thing she can overcome she says.
Jan Dan – Dust in the Win by Kansas.
Jan Dan’s wife had a baby daughter during the tapings. An R&B singer, Jan is known for picking surprising songs across genres. This time, he chooses a 70s classic rock hit. “Let that soul come through in your body language,” says Gwen. “Weird is the way,” says MGK.
The singer’s song choices are truly unexpected and weird! And for the most part, he pulls it off. He’s a guy who loves all kinds of music, obviously. He brings a soulful vibe to the performance, but he does not oversing it. He waits until the end to add a few tasteful runs.
Reba loves the way he vocalizes. Michael wonders what else he has up his sleeve. Gwen calls Jan a painter with his voice. “It’s so cool.”
Sydney Sterlace – betty by Taylor Swift
Fifteen year old Sydney wants to be a singer-songwriter. Backstage, Gwen thinks the song is a challenge for the young singer. She suggests she not smile through the song. Sydney admits she has a happy, drama free life. It’s not easy for her to play a part she isn’t.
Sydney has a ton of potential as a singer. But as Gwen noted, she’s young and has more maturing to do. She’s not smiling, but instead scrunches up her face during the dramatic parts of the song. That tone is so pretty and full, but she’s not quite there yet.
Michael is blown away by Sydney. He calls her a superstar. Reba loves her boots and her vocal range. Snoop says he’ll attend her concert when she’s famous.
RESULTS
The FIVE singers take center stage. Gwen feels proud and honored. She reminds them that this is just a moment in their life. She is making her choices according to who she thinks she can coach and help grow. And now she’s crying. “I truly learned something from each one of you guys.”
The first artist moving on to the semi-finals is Jan Dan. He’s surprised. “He’s too unique” Gwen explains. Next, Gwen picks Sydney Sterlace. Gwen loves the teens, even when they aren’t ready. Gabrielle and Jose were robbed. I mean, the coaches go on and on about how the show is called “The Voice” and is all about vocal ability. Clearly, Gwen bypassed the best singers of the group.
Team Snoop and Team Reba pick their semifinal teams on Monday.
The Voice 26 Top 8
Jan Dan
Sydney Sterlace
Eliminated
Gabrielle Zabosky
Jake Tankersley
Jose Luis
