NBC’s The Voice is back on our screens, back in our lives. And some standouts have already stepped forward for this latest, 24th season.
Mara Justine did her chances no harm with a Rocket Man rendition Monday night (Sept. 25) for her Blind Audition, which she hit deep, coated in a smoky tone. The 21-year-old native of Galloway, New Jersey performed Elton John‘s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” a song so iconic, the British pop legend referenced it in the title of his farewell tour.
The coaches went hard and fast. John Legend turned first, immediately followed by Gwen Stefani. The show’s newest coach Reba McEntire turned third, then Niall Horan, the reigning champion coach, to complete a four-chair turn.
“Someone who’s willing to go into the first round and sing an Elton John song like that takes something. If this is where you’ve set the bar,” Horan remarked, “what are we going to see down the line? America’s going to fall in love with that voice.”
McEntire praised the song selection, Justine’s voice, confidence and stage presence. “You’ve got such a song-spoken voice to have such a big voice when you sing,” she enthused, “that’s incredible.”
The country star kicked off the sales pitches. Legend followed suit. The R&B artist pointed out the youngster’s “tone in the lower part of the song” and her “finesse to also do those really light touches.”
Stefani pushed her enthusiasm beyond, asserting she “would love, die, freak out” at the chance to coach the competitor.
Niall, in his desperation to poach Justine, triggered a giant prop to help catch her attention. Then he strolled over to her and worked his charm offensive. Legend played his own fight by singing “All of Me,” with Justine effortlessly dueted on.
In the end, the choice was all Justine’s. And who did she select? Buckle in. We don’t know the result until Tuesday night.
The Voice premiered Monday night at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and streaming on Peacock. Watch below.
This story originally appeared on Billboard
