Idol Chatter & Voice Views

His audition: Ricky Braddy, 36, of Nashville, Tenn., performed “The Story” By Brandi Carlile. Ricky showed off nice power and range. And his voice soared on the second verse, prompting chair turns from John Legend, Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton. John called his range “exciting” and said he’d like to get him to the finale. Gwen liked the theatrical side to his voice. Blake was impressed with his range and power and the emotion in his voice. Ricky opted to join Team Blake.

Here’s more about Ricky.

* First off, the name might ring a bell with singing show fans. Ricky was an early standout on Season 8 of American Idol, but didn’t advance past the wild card round (Top 17). Many viewers, myself included, thought he got gypped.

* In 2013, Ricky released a limited edition debut EP through his website and returned to his hometown of Elizabeth City, N.C., for an EP release show. That EP is not available through digital music sites.

* In 2015, he joined the Dove-Award winning gospel group Karen Peck and New River. He was a member of the group when they released their 2017 album, “Hope for All Nations.”

* He stayed with the music ministry through 2017. The group praised him for being “a rock” and having ” one of the most amazing, anointed, powerful voices in our generation.”

* Ricky, meanwhile, said he was grateful to be part of “such a wonderful and powerful ministry” for two and a half years. He left to become worship leader at a church in Nashville.

* A graduate of Belmont University, he grew up around music through church in rural North Carolina and sang with his parents’ gospel group.

* In his Voice audition announcement, Ricky writes: “The best part is, I’ve been able to approach this incredible opportunity with complete honesty, and tell my full story.” He refers fans to his Facebook page.

* In a heartfelt post there, Ricky writes: “You see, I was convinced at a very young age that I had a gigantic choice to make: you can be a Christian, or you can be gay…you can’t be both. But the reality was/is I am both,” adding “I finally know (and love) who I am. And I know my Creator does, too.”

* He also adds: “My family and true friends have been amazingly supportive and encouraging in all of this. God has a way of surrounding us with the right people at the right time, and I’m thankful for every wonderful soul around me.”

On social media:
Instagram
Twitter: @rickybraddy
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