Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Elise Azkoul performs Million Reasons during her blind audition on The Voice. (NBC Photo)

That landed her a spot on a TNT NBA show where she got to sing it to Shaq.

Elise released a debut single over the summer. And more original music is coming thanks to a successful KickStarter campaign.

Now Elise is a contestant on The Voice Season 17, thanks to a version of Lady Gaga’s “Million Reasons” that prompted a chair turn from Gwen Stefani.

Here’s what Elise, 28, of Atlanta, told Voice Views about her blind audition experience.

Voice Views: How did you wind up auditioning for The Voice Season 17 and what prompted you to do it?

Elise: I was contacted by The Voice Casting to audition for Season 17. They saw some of my videos on social media, and invited me to audition. From there it has been an exciting whirlwind, and such an amazing experience.

Voice Views: Why did you choose “Million Reasons” for your audition song?

Elise: I adore Lady Gaga! I love her voice, and her honest songwriting. It was an incredible honor to sing “Million Reasons” for my blind audition. I just kept thinking “I hope I do Gaga proud!” I hope to sing some of her songs from “A Star Is Born” next.

Voice Views: How do you feel about landing on Team Gwen? Did you have a coaching preference heading into the blind audition?

Elise: I am so happy to be on Team Gwen! It’s BANANAS! Gwen is not only an icon and a goddess, but she is a beautiful person inside and out. I am so honored to get to work with her. I also love John Legend, I think he’s a musical genius, and my dream is to sing a duet with him soon.

Voice Views: You launched a successful kickstarter campaign for a jazz album with a target release date of Nov. 19. Can you tell me a little about that project and whether The Voice has changed those plans?

Elise: I am super excited to release my debut album soon. The genre will be a cool blend of soulful pop music with some jazzy vibes! I am really excited to share my heart and my music with you all. I recently released my first single, “Coffee Baby” to give you a sneak peak of what is to come. My experience with the Voice has definitely shaped my musical style and the way I write.

See also …
Meet Elise Azkoul