"The Voice" USA Season 7 kicked off the Battle Round on Monday and three of them were sent home after failing to impress the coaches. However, it came as shock when 36-year-old wedding singer, Maiya Sykes was sent home despite her solid performance. Coaches didn't use their steal for this talented performer.
On Monday, 12 contestants from teams of Adam Levine, Gwen Stefani, Blake Shelton and Pharrell Williams hit the stage, fighting for a place in the next round. Elyjuh Rene, Chris Jamison, Sugar Joans, James David Carter, Taylor John Williams and Luke Wade were chosen by their respective coaches, while Jean Kelley, Craig Wayne Boyd and Griffin were stolen by other coaches. However, Maiya Sykes, Amanda Lee Peters and Jonathan Wyndham were sent home after none of the coaches used their steal to keep their hope in the competition alive.
Battle Round 1 Recap:
Elyjuh Rene vs Maiya Sykes of Team Pherrell: They performed "If I Ain't Got You" by Alicia Keys. It was an outstanding performance by both the contestants. Rene was energetic and hilarious while Sykes was more consistent and seemed to know how to impress the audience. However, Pharrell Williams chose Rene. What came as a shock was none of the coaches use their Steal though Sykes was such a powerhouse.
Chris Jamison vs Jonathan Wyndham of Team Adam: They rendered "Young Girls" by Bruno Mars. It may not be the perfect song choice for the duo but they put up a solid show. Wyndham Jonathan's performance was charismatic but Jamison managed to find a spot on Team Adam with his flexible voice.
Sugar Joans vs Jean Kelley of Team Gwen: They performed "Survivor" by Destiny's Child. Joans' distinctive voice and energy helped her find a place in Team Gwen. Interestingly, Williams used his steal for Kelley and she joined his team.
James David Carter vs Craig Wayne Boyd of Team Blake: They performed "Wave on Wave" by Pat Green. They were two different performers and nailed the song. Blake Sheldon picked Carter and Gwen Stefani used her steal for Boyd and welcomed him to her team.
Amanda Lee Peters vs Taylor John Williams of Team Gwen: The duo sang Dolly Parton's classic song, "Jolene". They put up a good performance but Gwen could choose only one of them. She went for Williams.
Griffin vs Luke Wade of Team Pharrell: They sang Paul McCartney's "Maybe I'm Amazed" and they did amaze everyone. They put up a solid performance. Williams chose Wade but Blake Shelton stole Griffin.
(Image Credit: Screenshot from The Voice YouTube Video)
