The Voice Blind Audition: Blake Shelton’s Old Bandmate Wows
From the first few notes of his The Voice season 20 Blind Audition, which were very smooth, I could tell that 45-year-old Nashville auditioner Pete Mroz was an experienced singer. This isn’t the first time someone has wowed with Blind Faith’s “Can’t Find My Way Home” in the auditions. Ryan Quinn’s Blind from season 10 is still considered one of the best of all time. Pete’s version wasn’t quite as rangey, but the singer had more of a storytelling quality with his slight rasp and he still hit the high notes with great control. He turned Blake Shelton and John Legend’s chairs.
I usually don’t like this style of music all that much, but Pete is so experienced, he could change my mind. I think this audition deserved 4 chairs even if I know that Pete probably won’t be as big of a contender as Cam Anthony or Kenzie Wheeler. There was something about this audition that just had me mesmerized, and I think it was simply the emotional connection and experience that Pete brings to the table. I think Pete has more to show. There were times he was only half opening his mouth and hitting big notes.
Right when Pete says that he went by the name Pete Mitchell, Blake instantly recognizes him as his former bandmate. They were in the Young Riders together and haven’t seen each other in 25 years. Too bad, I couldn’t locate a clip of the Young Riders or Pete Mitchell. The joke about Blake’s mullet continues. Well, John knew he was toast even if Blake stole his bass player. Nick Jonas and Kelly Clarkson try to convince Pete to go with John. Pete ultimately chooses Blake.
Pete is a soft rock singer that could possibly sing some blues songs. I wonder where he’ll fit in as he doesn’t really have a clear genre. I was able to locate a cover of a somewhat modern song, “Use Somebody” by Kings of Leon. (Watch it HERE) His approach does sound slightly dated. I wonder how he’ll connect with the audience. The Voice audience does tend to lean a bit older when compared to American Idol. Pete also performs in a band in Nashville that performs 60s/70s style music. (Watch HERE) Pete’s Instagram
