Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Johnny Bliss performs during the live playoffs on The Voice. (NBC Photo)

In Season 14, Johnny Bliss became the first contestant on the show to sing two entire performances in Spanish.

Add that to an impressive list of other accomplishments for the young man from New York.

After all, he was one of just five singers to turn four chairs in the blind auditions. He was one of the first contestants ever to be blocked for joining a team because a coach wanted him so badly.

Johnny was eliminated from the show following the live playoffs Wednesday, but says fans can expect new music from him before summer’s end.

Here’s what Johnny told Voice Views about his time on the show and his plans 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?

Johnny: I am very open to new opportunities in different industries — movies, fashion, music, etc. Music for me is always #1 and, yes, I plan on releasing at least three singles before the summer ends. Songs that have lived with me for a while now and I feel very confident will do well and represent me and my cultural ways.

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?

Johnny: I think the fans will love how they come together as one to build me. My sound will be a lot more daring and confident. I want to continue bringing inspiration and empowering #Blissfamz (I’ve decided to call my fans #Blissfamz, because I don’t see myself treating them like anything less than family). I want them to dance and sing full voice and body to my music. The Voice brought this fuel to my fire and that’s how it will affect it!

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?

Johnny: I have to say “America, America” was a team effort choice. In other words, (coach) Alicia (Keys) and I both chose this song, because of what I wanted to project for my brand as an artist, which is coming together as one, inspiration and empowerment. It also came from a spiritual, personal place and fit my voice perfectly. “One and Only” was my choice hands down. It’s a song I love to sing and showcases my soulful English side. I think these performances were everything they were meant to be — emotional and personal.

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

Johnny: That’s easy! I connect with music just like everyone else, I love a lot of songs but there’s always that one that sticks to my head and I can’t stop listening to for weeks. In this case, Kyla Jade’s “You Don’t Own Me” had me at hello. She sung that song like what she is a master of voice and a strong confident human being.

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?

Johnny: Did not provide an answer.

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

Johnny: I am so grateful and literally just speechless with how wonderful this production team really is. They get us and always show the contestants respect, while helping us stay grounded. I would recommend this show to anyone who is looking to grow as a whole artist and showcase their talent. I would say study your sound, look and brand very well and study social media platforms. Stay true to who you are in every aspect and open to suggestions, but strong in your decisions and discernment.

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

Instagram
Twitter: @TheJohnnybliss
Facebook