Ep 8. The Battles Premiere, Part 2
- October 17, 2017
In the eighth episode of The Voice's thirteenth season, the action heats up as the second half of the Battle rounds begin with a bang. The episode is titled The Battles Premiere, Part 2 and features some of the most exciting and diverse performances the show has seen so far this year.
The coaches, Adam Levine, Miley Cyrus, Jennifer Hudson, and Blake Shelton, are back in their red swivel chairs, ready to judge and critique their contestants. The format for the Battle rounds is simple: each coach selects two of their own contestants to go head to head, singing the same song in front of a live audience. After the performance, the coach must choose which contestant to keep on their team and which to send home.
The episode opens with a matchup between a young pop singer and an experienced gospel singer, both from Team Jennifer. The pop singer performs a sultry version of Ariana Grande's "Side to Side," while the gospel singer brings down the house with a stirring rendition of "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke. Jennifer agonizes over her decision but ultimately chooses the gospel singer, much to the delight of the audience.
Next up are two country singers from Team Blake, who go head to head on the classic Johnny Cash tune "Folsom Prison Blues." One contestant brings a more traditional twang to the song, while the other takes a risk by infusing it with a rock and roll edge. The coaches are divided on who did better, but in the end, Blake chooses the traditional country singer to move on.
Team Miley follows with an emotional performance of "You Don't Own Me" by Lesley Gore. The two contestants, one a powerhouse rock singer and the other a soulful R&B sensation, both leave it all on the stage. Miley has a tough time deciding but ultimately chooses the R&B singer as the winner of the Battle.
Finally, Team Adam takes the stage with two female voices that couldn't be more different. One is a classic crooner, while the other is a powerhouse diva. Their song choice, "Love So Soft" by Kelly Clarkson, allows both voices to shine. Adam is visibly torn between the two, but ultimately decides to take a chance on the diva and sends the crooner home.
Throughout the episode, the coaches also have the opportunity to steal contestants who have been eliminated by other coaches. This adds an exciting twist to the proceedings, as the eliminated contestants get to choose which coach they want to work with next.
Overall, The Battles Premiere, Part 2 is an exciting and emotional episode of The Voice. The talent on display is truly impressive, and the coaches provide insightful feedback and critiques. The format of the Battle rounds adds some healthy competition to the show, and the possibility of steals keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Viewers won't want to miss who makes it through to the next round.
