Idol Chatter & Voice Views

His audition: Jaelen Johnston, 21, of Derby, Kansas performed “Where the Wild Things Are” by Luke Combs: Jaelen’s deep and powerful vocals earned chair turns from Adam Levine, Michael Buble and Kelsea Ballerini in rapid order. Jaelen completed an impressive performance, but couldn’t entice John to turn. Kelsea called his voice “unreal” and was also impressed with his range. Adam called the tone of Jaelen’s voice “unmistakably bold and strong.” Michael said he loves Jaelen’s “rich, deep baritone.” Jaelen decided to join Team Kelsea.

Here’s more about Jaelen:

* Jaelen released his debut EP, a four-song project called “Old School” in early 2023.

* He’s since followed up with three singles — “Welcome to the Shit Show,” “Top Shelf” and “Sober Cigarette.” The latter was his latest release and dropped last May. Check out the song and Jaelen’s impressive deep country vocals below.

* According to a press release on his music, Jaelen started playing music after his grandparents gave him a pawn-shop guitar for Christmas when he was 16.

* He eventually started performing locally and caught the attention of Fijack Entertainment Coalition and hit the recording studio.

* Jaelen describes his music as a blend of grit, soul, blues and rock.

* And he says he’s inspired by artists like Chris Stapleton, Zach Bryan and Treaty Oak Revival.

* “People always ask me, ‘Why country?’ In my opinion, country has the potential to be about as raw and honest as music gets … I’m proud to be a blue-collar Kansas kid with a loud voice and a guitar.”

* Judging from social media, he’s been maintaining a busy schedule of shows in the Derby and Wichita areas. But he’s blocked off the majority of April and May as unavailable for booking, a possible indication that he does well during the pre-taped episodes of The Voice.

Check back each day between now and Feb. 3 for profiles of more Season 27 artists on The Voice

Jaelen on social media:
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