Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Darious Lyles and Nelson Cade rehearse for the battle round on The Voice Season 18. (NBC Photo)

Darious Lyles scored what had to be one of the biggest upsets in The Voice Season 18 battle round so far.

Having turned two chairs in the blind auditions, he was named the winner over four-chair turn recipient Nelson Cade III.

John Legend declared Darious the winner after the two men performed The Beatles classic “Come Together” on the episode that aired Monday night.

Both singers drew high praise for the performance. John called it one of the most entertaining battles we’ll see; Nick Jonas called it a phenomenal duet.

And, as it turned out, both singers advanced. John decided to use his only save on Nelson.

Here’s what Darious, 30, of Chicago, Ill, told Voice Views about the experience.

Voice Views: What do you think was the key to your success in the battle round? And how did it feel to get such amazing feedback from all the coaches?

Darious: I had to stay consistent with my energy and continue to make the song my own .

Voice Views: How did the song choice work for you? Did it pose any special challenges? It’s a classic song, but is it one you had performed often?

Darious: The song choice was perfect! A lot of people wouldn’t expect a R&B singer to sing a classic such as that song. I know how to adapt to other genres so it wasn’t a challenge. It was more so for me to open up more with my stage presence.

Darious Lyles and Nelson Cade perform during the battle round on The Voice Season 18. (NBC Photo)

Voice Views: Had you had much experience with duets entering the battle round? And, if so, do you think that worked to your advantage in preparing for the battle?

Darious: Yes, I have! I have the pleasure of sharing the stage often with other singers and that played a big part in this battle.

Voice Views: Anything else you’d like to add about the battle round experience?

Darious: Nelson is a great talent and made it so easy to work with him. We exchanged arrangements and it was so fun once we performed in front of John.

Voice Views: And, obviously, you can’t talk about song choice, but is there a side of your artistry you haven’t gotten to display yet that you hope to in coming rounds?

Darious: I want to have a song choice that shows my vocal power, my smoothness, vocal range, and pure passion. I also play piano so I’m hoping to make it to the live shows to showcase my skills. I focus on giving a great performance full of passion every single time.

See also …
Meet Darious Lyles and learn about the music he’s released
Darious Lyles talks about his blind audition on The Voice