'The Voice' teams led by Pharrell Williams and Blake Shelton give the other coaches a run for their money

The Voice coaches Pharrell Williams and Blake Shelton had their teams perform last night in the Live Playoffs, proving no particular artist has Season 9 in the bag.


During Tuesday night's episode on NBC, "Team Pharrell" and "Team Blake" performed in full for America's votes. The contestants took the stage with stripped-down songs to show off their vocals.

In a unique twist, each coach was afforded the opportunity to bring a previously-eliminated team member back. The "comeback artists" will move forward in the competition just like any other contestant as long as home viewers decide to keep them around. Only three artists per team will advance to the next round.

For "Team Pharrell," Darius Scott performed his own rendition of "Love Lockdown" by Kanye West, which featured his own arrangement. Pharrell appreciates Darius' artistry and knows he's something special. Although the vocal wasn't perfect, Adam Levine pointed out how even a few flaws can't really harm what he brings to the stage. Blake noted Darius is the guy all the coaches have to worry about.

Evan McKeel sang "Overjoyed" by Stevie Wonder. Gwen Stefani gave some constructive criticism, saying his presence onstage was a little too prepared and theatrical and he could work on being genuine when he sings. Blake said he proved himself to be a great singer, and while Pharrell admitted he looked a little awkward at times, you don't always look cool when you love someone.


Madi Davis took the stage with "Songbird" by Fleetwood Mac. Blake called this performance "a breakout moment" for Madi, and Pharrell complimented her power and vocals at only 16-years-old.

Celeste Betton returned as Pharrell's "comeback artist," and performed "Something In the Water" by Carrie Underwood, which brought Gwen to tears because she's such an emotional, inspiring singer. Pharrell said he hopes she'll remain in the competition for the long run because he'd definitely miss her. 

Riley Biederer sang "Should've Have Been Us" by Tori Kelly. Her former coach Gwen loved how she belted out some big notes and it was clear the pair had previously made a connection. Pharrell called Riley a fighter and the audience cheered loudly, so they seemed to agree.

Mark Hood took the stage with "What Do U Mean" by Justin Bieber, a very recently-released song. Mark showed off the different colors in his voice, and Gwen said he made her cry -- again -- and he's one of her favorites. Adam noted Mark is amazing, and Blake was also astounded by his performance.

As for Team Blake, Ivonne Acero made quite the splash.


Ivonne sang, "One of Us" by Joan Osbourne. Pharrell explained her confidence is a contrast to her sweet, kind personality. Adam couldn't help but praise Blake for mentoring her because her performance was "phenomenal." Blake said although she's shy, she doesn't act that way onstage.

Morgan Frazier sang "Lips of an Angel" by Hinder. Blake was ecstatically yelling "yes" and Pharrell acknowledged how it was clear why Blake saved her in a previous round of competition. Gwen was stunned by the power in Morgan's voice, while Blake called her "a country standard." Blake then jokingly said America would be full of hate if they didn't vote her through because she's an excellent talent.

Zach Seabaugh took the stage with "Brand New Girlfriend" by Steve Holy. Adam noted it was Zach's best performance yet in his mind, and Blake compared him to Elvis, which is obviously a huge compliment. Blake thought Zach bought a ticket into the Top 12.

Blake's "comeback artist" was Nadjah Nicole. She performed "Upside Down" by Diana Ross, and Blake was very happy to have her back. Adam thought the performance was good and Blake was glad to witness her dream coming true of being Diana Ross.

Emily Ann Roberts sang "In the Garden," a gospel song that is special to her family. Gwen confessed Emily is one of her favorite artists this season because she's so "pure." Adam started gushing about how much talent is on this show, and Blake flat out said Emily has the voice of an angel.


Barrett Baber took the stage with "I Drive Your Truck" by Lee Brice. Gwen and Adam agreed he has incredible passion for performing and it shows every time he sings. Blake went as far as to declare Barrett gives as much to his performances as Garth Brooks. 






About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski