Kelly Clarkson is back in her red chair; and let’s be real, it already feels like she never left. With Season 29 of “The Voice” officially underway, Clarkson is doing what she does best: building a team that hits every emotional note while keeping things just a little competitive (okay, a lot competitive).
As the show heads into the “Semi-Finals Top 9” on April 13, Clarkson has locked in her top three: JW Griffin, Liv Ciara, and Mikenley Brown. And it seems like she knew from the very beginning who her standouts were going to be.
Team Kelly is Locked In
“If I’m being honest, these were the three from the jump,” Clarkson explained in an interview (via People). “These were the three from the blinds that definitely stood out for me. All three, the commonalities, they’re very different artists.“
Honestly? That tracks. Clarkson has always had a knack for spotting talent early; and more importantly, nurturing it in a way that feels authentic to each artist.
She continued, “It doesn’t matter the genre of music for me. I always like to have a lot of different variety on my team but these three from the jump have made me cry at some point. They’re all really gifted.”
And yep, that emotional connection? It seems like it’s the secret sauce. Clarkson isn’t just coaching voices… she’s connecting with stories, styles, and those moments that hit you right in the chest.
Why Blake Shelton’s Absence Helps (A Little)
NBCNow here’s where things get interesting; and a little cheeky. Clarkson didn’t hold back when talking about one familiar face missing from this season: Blake Shelton.
“I really am so happy Blake Shelton isn’t here right now.”
And honestly? It seems like she’s only half joking.
Anyone who’s watched their dynamic over the years knows Shelton was fierce competition… especially when it came to country artists. Without him in the mix, Clarkson has a clearer lane to scoop up those voices, and she knows it.
She even leaned into that advantage, saying, “I do think that I’ve won with country artists and they have not. So pick me.“
Cue the friendly rivalry energy; because while Adam Levine and John Legend are no pushovers, Clarkson clearly feels confident in her track record.
And let’s be real, she should. Her ability to guide artists across genres (especially country) has consistently paid off.
NBCWhat’s Next for ‘The Voice’ This Season?
With the end of the season right around the corner, the competition is only getting tighter. Clarkson’s trio is heading into the next round with momentum, emotion, and a coach who genuinely believes in them… which, if history tells us anything, is a pretty powerful combination.
So yeah, Blake Shelton might be missed; but it seems like Kelly Clarkson is doing just fine holding down the fort. And whether her team keeps delivering or not, one thing is true: we’re in for one amazing season finale.
“The Voice” airs on NBC, streaming next day on Peacock. Here’s what’s coming up next:
- Semi-Finals: Monday, April 13 at 9:00pm ET.
- Finale: Tuesday, April 14 at 9:00pm ET.
