By providing your information, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy. We use vendors that may also process your information to help provide our services. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Suggesting superstitiously that Season 13 of The Voice would be unlucky was a silly gimmick, I thought — until in the premiere, the coaches all passed on my two favorite contestants of the night: Xaris, a teenage folk singer who’s as much of a gem as Jewel, and Odiseas, who returned from his Season 3 tryout with enough star power to light up a constellation. But it was still nice to have Miley Cyrus back on the panel — and not to have to listen to Gwen Stefani pitching female vocalists on joining her team with compelling arguments like, “You’re a girl, and I’m a girl, and you know… girls!” And it can’t be overstated what a welcome addition to the panel Jennifer Hudson is. Not only is she as funny as she is talented — which is really saying something — but her enthusiasm is contagious, especially when she’s so excited about a number that she throws a shoe at the performer. “Where I come from, y’all, that’s a compliment,” she explained. “When you sing like that, you’d better be prepared to do what? Duck.” Which vocalist (first) got JHud so wound up? Read on, and we’ll review all of the singers who’ll be advancing from the Blind Auditions to the Battles, then you can pick your favorite in the poll that follows.
Chris Weaver (Team Jennifer), “Try a Little Tenderness” — Grade: A- | The New York worship leader/drag queen — well aware that that was one of the stranger day job/night job combos in existence — had Adam Levine’s chair turning within the first coupla notes. And with good reason. He didn’t just deliver a smoky rendition of the Otis Redding classic, he set it on fire, inspired the enthusiastic shoe-throwing detailed above and probably ensured that he’d never be made to lip-synch for his life.
Mitchell Lee (Team Blake), “Hold My Hand” — Grade: B- | Pursuing music in memory of his late mother who never saw him as the dentist he’d once studied to be, this Nashville woodworker sounded like a sure thing for Team Blake (Shelton) from the minute he opened his mouth. But, while there wasn’t technically a bum note in the performance, it wasn’t exactly thrilling, either. Lucky for him, the judges all thought he was the hottest thing since Ty Pennington.
Janice Freeman (Team Miley), “Radioactive” — Grade: B | Although the throaty, low tones of the cancer survivor’s voice were ear-catching from the start, it appeared for a while that she’d made a misstep in choosing to try to slay Imagine Dragons; the performance just wasn’t gelling. By the end, it came together and took off, allowing her to really let loose and show her chops. But it certainly suggests that Miley will have to be extra careful picking songs for Janice. One size does not fit all.
Shi’Ann Jones (Team Jennifer), “Drown in My Own Tears” — Grade: A- | JHud swiveled for this huge-voiced 15-year-old within milliseconds — a record, she insisted — and then playfully tried to warn her fellow coaches not to turn their chairs for the youngster that she fancied could be a Mini-Her. (Only Blake didn’t listen.) However, while Shi’Ann memorably took us to church, does she really have a prayer? You told me last season that kids don’t tend to fare fantastically in the long run. On the other hand, Brennley Brown made it to the semifinals and Aliyah Moulden, to the finals.
Dave Crosby (Team Adam), “I Will Follow You Into the Dark” — Grade: C | Thanks to the YouTube star, famous for his duet of “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” with 4-year-old daughter Claire, I now know what it would sound like if Wonder Bread sang. Can’t believe he and his breathy voice got chairs turning, but Xaris and Odiseas didn’t. Is he a nice fellow? I’m sure. But a captivating performer with a remarkable voice? Yeah, no. I’d sooner have put Claire through to the next round.
Esera Tuaolo (Team Blake), “Rise Up” — Grade: A- | Once a closeted NFL player, “Mr. Aloha” scored a touchdown with his rock-solid Andra Day cover, then went for and got the extra point by pulling off a note that seemed to go on longer than a commercial break. Not sure if the ginormous baller has the charisma to go to the finals, but then, once upon a time, I would’ve said that about Jesse Larson, too (and we all know how that worked out).
Brandon Showell (Team Adam), “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back” — Grade: B | The cruise-ship-singer-turned-English teacher has a fine voice, and when he was doing that growly thing that I’m a sucker for, even an interesting one. But — and no one could fault him for being nervous — he looked about as uncomfortable in his own skin as Odiseas looked at home in his. And isn’t that, at least in part, the difference between a good singer and a big star?
Lucas Holliday (Team Jennifer), “This Woman’s Work” — Grade: A- | Proving he has balls to spare, “Luke the Singing Cashier” — once a viral sensation, thanks to his checkout-line Maxwell cover — chose the R&B singer’s take on Kate Bush for his audition. And didn’t just choose it, nailed it, offsetting a startling falsetto with a deeper register that didn’t even sound like it had come out of the same person. So good, I’m gonna give him a pass on the dubious, mullet-y hairdo that reminded Blake of Frasier Crane.
Brooke Simpson (Team Miley), “Stone Cold” — Grade: A- | “I thought I knew singing,” said Jennifer, “until you just came out here and did that.” In other words, the Native-American vocalist’s Demi Lovato cover, performed admirably with as much passion as control, went over well. Brooke doesn’t have Janis Joplin’s raspiness, but there’s still a JJ quality to her that works.
What did you think of the Season 13 premiere of The Voice? Grade it in the poll below, then pick your favorite advancing performer of the night in the poll below that poll.
I might be in the minority here, but i was not really into Jennifer Hudson, like at all. I cannot stand when they talk over the contestants singing, or get up and move around trying to talk to the other coaches. That is an important moment for those people and it’s so distracting and disrespectful to me. Just sit down and wait, you will get your turn to yammer on soon enough. Just let them finish! Was totally expecting to be annoyed by Miley, so this was an unexpected turn of events for me tonight lol
Agree 100%….can not stand Jennifer Hudson. She’s obnoxious and loud and thinks she’s better than everyone. I wouldn’t call her singing anything other than screaming. Wish they found someone else. I just love Adam, Blake and Miley! Stop throwing crap at people. She’s horrible and she’s ruining this season for me!
Agreed 100%! I can’t stand Jennifer Hudson and am shocked they would chose such a dislikable personality for The Voice! I’ll try watching a couple more episodes, but I doubt I’ll be watching the whole season, because of her. And I have to wonder what these coaches are listening for? How did they not turn for Xanis?!
I’m already fed up with Jennifer Hudson. Throwing a shoe is an insult in many cultures and putting that aside, it seems that she’s out to make the show all about herself. She needs to watch episodes with Alicia Keys to see what class looks like.
Trump is president now. It’s obvious that class has gone out the window.
@Kevstar69: IMO JHud would be obnoxious regardless of the sitting POTUS.
I totally agree! She’s driving me crazy! Singing while contestants are singing is rude and throwing things at people is rude not a dang compliment “where I come from”. I’m glad I’m not the only one who is finding her so annoying.
I found J-HUD so over the top I started muting her. She’s a brilliant singer and has been a contestant and a coach before. She doesn’t need to sing over or throw things at the contestants to woo them.
I agree…Jennifer is too loud and obnoxious…having watched the Voice UK I can see why she’s like that…some of the judges there make a big show out of pressing their buttons…let’s keep it about the contestants…we don’t need judges throwing things and rushing up to the stage, or singing during their comments…we get it…you’re a singer…calm down!
I agree!
She was not like this on the UK version. I didn’t think I would like her when they announced she would join the Voice UK. I did. I don’t know what happened between the UK and the US, but I agree she was OTT & not likable.
Disagree – love JHud!
I have to admit, I was not a fan of shi’ann. I felt like she put way too many runs on the song it was hard to understand the lyrics. Also I kept thinking of Sarayha version of Drown in my own tears. But Shi’ann has a lovely voice. I really like Brooke and Chris. Overall tonight a good start but not great. Here is to hoping the talent grows exponentially. XD
Can we just focus on the contestants please? Jennifer and Miley sit down and shut up please. You are ruining the show and will end up losing viewers. Adam and Blake good job!!!!!
We’re 13 seasons in. Anyone who was going to quite due to the show’s excessive focus on the judges would have done so a long time ago!
Was not impressed with Brooke or Shi’Ann, couldn’t understand half of what they were singing with all the screaming and embellishments. Loved Lucas and Chris.
Jennifer and Miley are showboating. Miley does not need to dress like a teenager anxious to show her navel.
Their egos, especially Jennifer’s are already ruining the show. Throwing shoes, acting out is not complimentatary. It is grandiose and unnecessary. What a shame for the great The Voice show.
Nah, throwing a shoe at a singer is the greatest compliment you can give that type of singer. Especially coming from Hudson, that gesture meant something to the contestant.
That’s cause she’s from the ghetto. I love Jennifer Hudson and I think she’s one of the best singers ever, however, It’s really disrespectful to throw a shoe at another person. Also, she doesn’t have to keep showcasing her talent during these shows. We all know she can sing. This show is not about her. Geez!
If this is what they’ve got to show us this season, it’s going to be a tough one to watch. No one who performed last night struck me as a contestant who could go all the way to the finale. And J-Hud was just over-performing all over the place. I hope she relaxes a bit for the rest of the season.
Thank you!
My #1 was Lucas. I had my stank face on the whole time, and my gospel hand was waving in the air like it just didn’t care. Chris was pretty good too. I actually quite enjoyed Mitchell – a nice palate cleanser from the more excessive vocalists (Shi’Ann, Brooke, Janice). Dave was WAY too breathy. Watched some videos of him on YouTube, and he’s not too bad though. Wasn’t really a fan of Esera either – sounded pretty average, so not sure how he got more chairs than Lucas…
Brooke and Chris were terrific—A+. Lucas has mucho ability, but untrained on phrasing; too much head voice—A-. Xaris with her delicate folk phrasing was just as good—A-. Gave B+ to Esera, who is good but limited; same for Dave Crosby. A solid B to Janice and Mitchell—good vocals, but some cracks. B- for Shi’Ann, Brandon, & Odiseas, who were plenty talented, but made poor choices—she too trilly, Brandon erratic, & Odiseas bad song. A good opening night.
Too much commentary tonight on thread about the coaches. The girls are finding their way. Adam & Blake toned their schtick for now, that is good–but won’t last. All 4 behaved ok. Just wish Xaris had gotten in for a few rounds.
I think jennifer Hudson is so annoying! She is screaming all the time her horrible big mouth is always open and she doesnt know how to talk! She waits for the other coaches then buzz! Where is Alicia????? Welcome back Miley
From what I saw last night JHud is 1 and done on this show.
Always loved the voice. After last night, only Blake seemed credible. JHud seemed to want to steal the show, Miley was Miley, and Adam continues to act as if he is a twelve year old vying for attention. Needs to be about the singers auditioning, not about the judges antics. I thought it got way off course at times.
Wow. Interesting that Blake and Adam have been bickering since the show began, and you’re shading Jennifer Hudson and Miley Cyrus?
It’s part of the package to me. I just take it all in, including those people who comelet to sing.
Indeed
I like Jennifer Hudson…. however I really think she over did it! You don’t have to break out in song 10 times during a two hour show. By the end, I wanted to throw my shoe at her, and NOT because she is an amazing singer…..
Hahahaha that was really funny! I feel exactly the same.
she reminds me a little bit of Christina Aguilera in that she starts singing the song that the contestant sings – the focus should be on the contestant – not her – so not a huge fan – still love her voice though – as for throwing the shoe – when I was growing up – in my Irish American home – my Grandmother used to go play bingo sometimes – when she was headed out the door she would call out for us to throw an old shoe after her for luck – so I don’t mind the shoe throwing too much – reminds me of my Grandmother and wishing luck is always a good thing! love Blake and am happily impressed with Miley Cyrus too –
I agree with everyone here re JHud. She’s annoying & IMO very overrated. She has a good voice but there’s too much screaming & a bunch of useless runs. I didn’t like her on Amer Idol & I don’t like her now. re the auditioners, I only liked a couple. I was surprised that Janice & Shi’Ann got chairs to turn. I didn’t like their voices at all.
Charley, I agree with you. The judges didn’t even turn around for my favorite contestants of the night: “Xaris, a teenage folk singer who’s as much of a gem as Jewel, and Odiseas, who returned from his Season 3 tryout with enough star power to light up a constellation.” I also liked Brooke and Lucas.
I totally agree with everyone about Jennifer. But, I’ll take her any day over gwen! I didn’t even watch it last season because of her.
The show was just awful! The best contestant was the four year old! Lots of shrieking and vocal gymnastics mixed with Hudson’s weirdness. Sheldon looks old and jaded.I’m afraid the show may have jumped the shark. If this is the best producers can pull from a pool of contestants then it’s about time to say sayonara!
Tonight’s performers were even worse! More screeching and off pitch attempts at singing. The coaches must be tone deaf this year!
Did anyone else notice that we didn’t get a performance from the coaches?!? That’s, like a highlight of a new season of the Voice for me.
I absolutely LOVE JHud! Wow, I was so surprised and disappointed to see all the people who don’t. I love her enthusiasm and passion. I think she’s one of the best rotating judges they’ve had.
What you interpret as enthusiasm and passion the rest of us recognize as showboating and competing for the spotlight at the expense of the contestant. Different strokes.
Three hours with JHUD is tooooo much. The dynamic of Blake and Adam is funny. Miley is ok because she’s a team player. JHUD is no team player. Is she the star now? She needs her own show where she can throw shoes and notebooks and obnoxiously talk over everyone. She needs to remember that she is a “guest host””. SHE’S RUINING IT FOR ME!!!
Jennifer Hudson should be more humble. She is boring and throws stuff that makes her look really rude. Get Gwen or Alicia back, they are women with class.
Maybe Jennifer needs to watch what the Zohan does when someone throws a shoe at him.
She’s ghetto fabulous. Love her but God she’s starting to annoy me by thinking she’s better than everyone else.
Been watching the voice for years and actually liked most of the other judges, but “J HUD” needs to learn to sit down and shut up. She’s ruined this show and they’ve lost me and plenty other viewers and it’s only a couple weeks in. Sad cause I like the show and before when other coaches sang with contestants it was genuine and rare, made for a good moment now shes just begging for attention and it means nothing trying to take the spotlight from folks like she used to be. What a joke went from American idol to American spoiled little brat. Dumb move voice looks like you’ve ruined a good run, RIP.
Jennifer Hudson has totally ruined it for me this is the third week and her behavior is getting more atrocious obnoxious and rude. I am trying to record it so that I can zap her out of my viewing. what a shame taking a good show like this with so many great judges and having something like her come on there and ruin it for everyone