Tonight on The Voice, blinding performances saw Keith Urban and Guy Sebastian officially close their teams, while a shock performance ignited a pitching war between Guy, Jess and Rita.
A born performer, 19-year-old Liam Keates-Ryley from Queensland chose Wilson Pickett’s Land of 1000 Dances to convince the coaches he belonged on The Voice stage. A pitching tussle immediately erupted between Jess and Rita; with Jess reminding Liam his song choice featured in her break-out film, The Sapphires, before joining him onstage and busting her dance moves from the film. Despite Jess’ moves, Rita managed to snatch the artist for her team, wryly declaring: “sometimes less is more.”
Operatic singer Elizabeth Hylton from NSW said music was her way of reaching people following her autism diagnosis at nine years old. Singing Puccini’s soaring aria O Mio Babbino Caro, Elizabeth was welcomed to Team Jess, leaving the coach with only one spot left to fill. “That was absolutely superb! I instantly felt your artistry. I understood you. I connected with you,” said Jess of the artist’s impeccable vocals.
Twenty-six-year-old Taylor Piggott from Victoria sang Coldplay’s epic hit Yellow, dedicating the performance to the memory of his late nan, who was a huge supporter of his music. Mesmerised by Taylor’s performance, all four coaches began pitching, but Taylor agreed to take the final place on Team Keith. “I’ve never heard anything like that. That tone that you have is extraordinary,” said Keith.
Victoria’s Cassidy Mackie took Go West’s hit, The King of Wishful Thinking, down tempo on the piano; instantly turning Jess, Guy and Rita’s chairs and winning praise from Keith who had already completed his team.
“Everything about you is what makes me excited to be a coach,” said Guy of the 26 year old’s stunning performance. “I just adore you. You’re fantastic.”
Cassidy chose Team Guy, citing his musicality and longevity in the industry, officially rounding out the coach’s team. “Everybody is so diverse and has something to offer,’ said Guy. “I’ve got artists that are realising they are good for the first time. That’s an amazing thing to uncover.”
