Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Radha performs during the knockout round on The Voice. (NBC Photo)

It wasn’t planned that way. At least not by Radha.

The first-generation Filipino-American from Jersey City said Mariah’s “I’ll Be There” was actually at the top of her suggested song list for the knockout round.

It was only after she decided to sing the song that she discovered Mariah would be the key adviser for all the teams.

“I was genuinely in shock, because I then had to sing her rendition in front of her,” said Radha. “Definitely an experience to cherish and remember.”

But the drama wasn’t over for the young woman who enticed three judges to turn their chairs for her high-energy, blind audition performance of “Mama Knows Best.”

Adam named Reagan Strange the winner of their knockout round match, putting Radha in danger of elimination.

But only for a couple of minutes, because Adam also swooped in and saved Radha so she’d be part of his team for the live playoffs, which begin Nov. 12.

Here’s what else Radha had to say about her knockout round experience on The Voice.

Voice Views: You’d been praised for the energy you brought to the stage in your previous performances, but decided to sing a ballad this time around. Why?

Radha: For the knockout rounds, I decided to choose “I’ll Be There” because ballads are my roots. With Mariah Carey I mention, “To me it’s like an anthem, everyone knows the song.” It’s a timeless song that reflects a piece of my childhood to the audience. For this time around I wanted to bring subtlety and sincerely with a Jackson 5 and Mariah Carey classic. I felt that I already established the fierce energy on stage during the blind auditions, so I wanted to show a warmer side of me.

Voice Views: So, the battle is over and Reagan is named the winner. At that point, what are you thinking? Did you think a steal or save was likely? And what was that experience like?

Radha: After Reagan won the knockout, I will say I was in awe. At that point, I was so anxious knowing there were no more steals left. Moments after Carson Daly says, “coaches, I want to remind you that RADHA is available to save,” and Adam is already standing ready to hit his button. My heart dropped, butterflies were going wild, and I didn’t know what to do so I hugged Carson really tight! It was amazing to known that Adam didn’t hesitate to fight for me and take me to the live playoffs. I am so thankful.

Voice Views: Is there anything you want to focus on or put front and center for fans to see when the live shows begin?

Radha: Throughout my time being at rehearsals with Adam, the vocal coaches, and the featured advisors (Cee Lo Green and Mariah Carey) they’ve all put a lot of emphasis on polishing my dynamics and emotions when singing a song. “Immerse yourself in a song and feel it in your heart,” said Adam and Mariah Carey. I am taking in all the advice they’ve given me and I will definitely apply it all my upcoming performances, whether it be on or off the show. When I can feel the song and show my vulnerability through the colors of my voice, I believe I can deliver my truest self and sound.

Voice Views: Anything else you’d like to add about the knockouts?

Radha: I will honestly say that the knockouts happened to be the most challenging round for me. Singing “I’ll Be There” in front of Mariah Carey and getting real advice from her means a lot to me. I am very blessed to have been saved by Adam. Moving on to the Live Playoff will be a new part of The Voice journey. I’ve grown vocally, musically, and personally so much on the show. Can’t wait to hit the live playoffs!