The Live Playoffs got started on NBC’s The Voice on Monday night, with coaches Blake Shelton, Adam Levine, Kelly Clarkson and Alicia Keys finally relinquishing the reins to viewers, who voted live on the performances. This round works a little differently this season. On Monday night, every member of the top 24 — six artists from each team — performed, and live votes determined the top artist from each of the teams. Those four got to advance to the top 12. The remaining 20 artists will perform on Tuesday and Wednesday, and live voting will eventually determine the top 12, who will get to sing again for America’s vote next week. Because of how many performances there were, there wasn’t time for coach feedback. It really was all up to the viewers.
Team Kelly stepped up first this week, starting with Alexa Cappelli singing “It Hurts So Bad.” She gave an emotional and entertaining performance, and the momentum built to a big note at the end.
Kaleb Lee followed with his performance of Patty Loveless’ “You Don’t Even Know Who I Am,” showing off his classic country sound. He accompanied himself on the guitar and went full cowboy with his performance, which helped him stand out on Team Kelly. He proved he’s a strong storyteller.
Next up, Tish Haynes Keys sang “Nothing Left for You” by Sam Smith. She outdid her other teammates with this understated yet powerful performance, delivering a strong lyrical interpretation. It was raw yet technically tight at the same time. She effortlessly stood out.
The youngest artist in the competition, Brynn Cartelli, sang Sia’s “Unstoppable,” accompanying herself on the keyboard at first and then eventually working the stage. It was a good song choice, and she exhibited a lot of confidence.
Dylan Hartigan followed with a performance of “Come Pick Me Up” by Ryan Adams. He was charming and managed to be vulnerable for the first time this season. He was able to showcase his range as well as his confident stage presence.
Closing out the Team Kelly performances, D.R. King sang “Home.” It wasn’t his most memorable performance this season, and the song choice wasn’t perfect, but King still proved that he’s one of the best technical singers in the competition. He should have brought more heat to the live voting situation, though.
Team Adam took the stage next, with Drew Cole singing Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror.” He impressed by playing with the arrangement a bit, which was a risk, but it paid off, making him memorable.
Mia Boostrom followed with a performance of “Baby I Love You” by The Ronettes, bringing out…
