Reba McEntire Turns Chair For Emotional Performance On The Voice

Reba McEntire may be the Queen of Country, but she recognizes a powerful, personal performance when she hears one — no matter the genre. During the latest round of Blind Auditions on The Voice on Tuesday night (March 5), McEntire turned her chair for a teenage contestant named William Alexander, as he delivered a smooth and stirring performance of Lizzy McAlpine's "Ceilings."

Alexander's performance fell more towards the pop and R&B genres than it did country, but he still captivated McEntire during his time onstage. He impressed both her and coach Chance the Rapper, who also turned his chair, with his song's emotional prowess. After Alexander finished his song, the coaches heard a little bit of the personal backstory that made his take on "Ceilings" so powerful.

Singing that song, I was actually singing it for my grandfather who passed away last year," the young singer explained. "He always said that he believed in me, and it's just crazy being here now." McEntire empathized with his experience, sharing her own struggles with emotion while singing about loved ones who have passed away. This connection between the contestants and the coaches is what makes The Voice so compelling and relatable to viewers.

Emotional Backstories and Connections

McEntire knows firsthand how hard it can be to sing a song for a late loved one. Last fall, she released "Seven Minutes in Heaven," a tribute to her late mother Jacqueline, who died in 2020 at age 93. McEntire has said that making both the song and its accompanying music video hit her and her siblings hard. This shared experience of grief and remembrance resonates deeply with audiences, making performances on The Voice feel incredibly personal and significant.

As she spoke to Alexander, McEntire said, "You’re gonna have somebody with you all the time," while her voice started to quaver. "Oh, now I’m getting choked up and I have to start talking very high. But I thought you did a great job, and your voice is a beautiful gift, and I’d love to have you on my team." Her heartfelt pitch ultimately won over Alexander, who had to choose between joining Team Reba or Team Chance.

This moment highlights the emotional depth of the show and how it allows contestants to share their personal stories. It also emphasizes the importance of having supportive coaches who understand the emotional weight behind each performance. The Voice is not just a singing competition; it’s a platform for sharing stories and connecting with others through music.

Why Personal Stories Matter in Music

Personal stories play a crucial role in music, especially in competitions like The Voice. They can create a strong emotional bond between the performer and the audience, making the experience memorable. When contestants share their backgrounds, it allows viewers to connect with them on a deeper level, understanding the motivation behind their performances.

Moreover, emotional performances often resonate more with the audience, leading to a greater impact. When listeners can relate to the artist's struggle or triumph, they become more engaged. In Alexander's case, his dedication to his grandfather made his rendition of "Ceilings" not just a performance, but a tribute filled with love and remembrance.

This connection is what makes music so powerful. It transcends genres and brings people together, often providing comfort and understanding during difficult times. In sharing their stories, artists like Reba McEntire and William Alexander remind us all of the healing power of music.

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