Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Drew Cole performs during the live playoffs on The Voice. (NBC Photo)

And he leaves no doubt that more original music will be coming now that his time on the show is over.

Drew was eliminated from The Voice during Wednesday’s live playoff episode, but not before putting together a string of impressive performances on the show.

Among them was his blind audition performance of “Sex and Candy” by Marcy Playground during the blind auditions.

That performance not only landed Drew a spot on Team Adam Levine, it was also one of the most popular blind audition songs on iTunes.

Here’s what Drew told Voice Views about his time on the show and his music moving forward.

Voice Views: What’s next for you as an artist? And do you envision releasing new music soon? If so, can you tell me about that? Either what you have planned or what you’d like to do? And what sound fans can expect?

Drew: I’ve always been a songwriter and I’m going to continue writing. I already have a couple new songs that are nearly ready to go. I will release them as singles then work towards my debut full length album. I also am hoping for a mini-tour in Europe this winter. It’s best to stay in touch with me on social media to follow along with my journey. My new music will have organic and synthesized elements coming together in a warm and soulful way.

Voice Views: How do you think your career — and any music you release in the future — will be affected by The Voice experience? If so, how?

Drew: This experience stimulated a lot of interest in myself as an artist. I already had such a great foundation of loyal fans, but this has further reinforced the passion both my new and old fans have for me. It can be difficult to keep fans engaged, but for something as exciting as The Voice to happen really helps real people in to my life. The Voice helped me grow as an artist and person and taught me how hard you have to work to be a professional.

Voice Views: During the playoffs, we didn’t get to hear about the thought process behind the song choices. Can you explain yours a bit? And how do you think those performances went for you?

Drew: “Man in The Mirror:” It’s so important to feel connected to the songs you sing on this show. It really helps it come across more powerfully to the audience. I’ve sung this song a lot before and I always felt its power through its dynamic build into an explosive chorus. I think for me to sing this song was powerful based upon the timing of a lot of things happening in our country and politically. eg. Gun laws, environmental problems, our president, to name a few. In addition, the hardest part is admitting you need to make a change in yourself. Lyrically it’s so special.

“Wild Horses:” This is a song that me and my sister would sing growing up. So right off the bat performing this song felt very nostalgic. It has such a powerful and bittersweet feeling to it — especially in the chorus. Believe it or not, Alicia Keys and Adam Levine collaborated on a super cool version of this song a while back. Their arrangement inspired the energy of my version. I can’t believe I got to perform this version in front of them.

Voice Views: What was your favorite performance from the show and why?

Drew: My favorite performance was my last, “Wild Horses.” I think it was a great way to be sent off. It was me in my purest form. With my hat and guitar. Singing LIVE on air is such an amazing thrill that also is a bit mind blowing. You can’t let these nerves and thoughts overtake you. Through this performance I was really able to feel connected to the room and feel so present in the moment. Looking back I wouldn’t do anything different. No regrets. Onward and upward.

Voice Views: That was a new playoff format this season. What did you think of it and would you recommend any changes for future seasons?

Drew: I think it was unfair that the West Coast wasn’t able to watch the live stream to help guide their votes. It essentially turned into a popularity contest based upon people liking you regardless of your actual performance. I think there was a strong push-back on the format from everyone. Even Adam himself disliked it. I honestly never really watched the show previously, so I’m not sure how it worked in years past. Make it a level playing field! Real-time voting is too confusing, and I think it hurt a lot of contestants.

Voice Views: Is there anything else you’d like to add about The Voice experience?

Drew: Here are some parting words… My final performance on The Voice felt like a dream. What a f—ing wild ride guys. What an incredible time this journey has been — I’m so proud of myself. I learned so much from this experience and now I can move forward and take it all with me. I’ve made everlasting friendships. I’ve grown a better person. I genuinely look forward to what’s next. I can’t wait to continue sharing my songs and my voice with you all. Thank you for listening. Thank you for your wholehearted love and support. I can feel it and I’ve never been happier. This is just the beginning.

Editor’s Note: Drew, from Los Angeles, was 25 when he auditioned for the show. For more on his pre-Voice music, head here. His social media links follow.

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Twitter: @DrewColeMusic
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