Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Blake Shelton squared off two of his youngest singers during the battle round on The Voice Tuesday night.

He pitted Tanner Linford, 17, of Kaysville, Utah, against Justin Johnes, 15, of Massapequa, N.Y.

The teen pop singers were asked to sing One Direction’s “You and I.”

And the victory went to Tanner, a returning contestant who had failed to land a spot on the show back in Season 6.

In a conference call with the media Wednesday afternoon, Tanner said “our battle went great. The coaches really seemed to like it.”

He said he got compliments for showing a “little more power” and for showing more confidence than during the blind audition.

“They said I have come a long way, but I still have room to grow,” he said.

As for the song, Tanner admitted he didn’t know it before rehearsals began.

“Now it’s one of my favorites,” he said.

For more on Tanner, head here. For more on Justin, head here. In both cases, you’ll find profiles and samples of their pre-Voice music.

Tanner Linford and Justin Johnes prepare for their Team Blake Shelton battle round on The Voice. (NBC Photo)

Justin Johnes and Tanner Linford perform during the battle round on The Voice. (NBC Photo)

Tanner Linford performs during the battle round on The Voice. (NBC Photo)

Justin Johnes performs during the battle round on The Voice. (NBC Photo)

Justin Johnes and Tanner Linford react to the verdict of their battle round match on The Voice. (NBC Photo)