No one can sing a Journey number like the mighty Steve Perry. Or maybe Gene Taylor.
Originally from Vernon, New Jersey, now based in Brooklyn, New York, Taylor, 33, has been around the theater and acting for much of his life. Under the bright lights of NBC The voice on Tuesday night (February 27), he showed off his talents for power and glory.
For Taylor's blind audition, a cover of Journey's 1978 song “Lights.” Power, glory.
John Legend turned first, then Dan +Shay, followed by Reb McEntire and finally Chance the Rapper, for a four-chair turn and a standing ovation.
“I always love a tenor who can sing those beautiful big notes,” says Legend, “but you also had finesse. He's done so skillfully as a singer.” And with that, Legend launched into his sales pitch. Legend would also bring some classic vocal skills to the mix, a fusion of Nat King Cole and rock.
“Your voice is incredible,” says Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay. “I was just sitting back and enjoying the music for just one second.” Dan Smyers exclaimed, “so much power, so much control. You are a star. We could tell you are a seasoned professional.”
“I thought it was awesome,” reckons Chance. The reason he came back last? “It was because I was really captured by the show. Your tone is so different, and I loved it. And then I turn around and see you too, like you've got that southern vibe.” The Chicago rapper is convinced Taylor will “go far” in the 2024 competition thanks to his “distinctive tone”.
If the The voice Fans and coaches didn't already love the contestant, he made sure of that when he brought his mom on stage.
A minor hit upon its release, “Lights” enjoyed a second life as a burst of inspiration for Bay Area sports franchises. Now, maybe an unexpected lift after her report The voice.
“The way you worked the crowd,” notes McEntire after the audition, “was perfect to match your beautiful voice.”
So, with any doubts about his talents completely erased, and all the coaches rolling out the welcome mat, it's time for Taylor to make a decision. Choose Legend.
His 25th and final season The voice started on monday. Watch Taylor's performance below.
