Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Heading into Monday’s episode of The Voice, just four spots remained on the teams for Season 17.

Gwen Stefani kept hoping for a young female singer to round out her team.

Turns out three young female singers — Zoe Upkins, Gracee Shriver and Caroline Reilly — landed three of the final spots on the show.

Gwen wound up with Caroline, who performed a song released more than 30 years before she was born.

Here’s a recap of Monday’s blind auditions.

ON TEAM LEGEND

Zoe Upkins, 16, of Nashville, Tenn., “Angel of Mine” by Monica: Zoe immediately showed off a vocal maturity beyond her years. And she enticed quick chair turns from John Legend, Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson. Kelly said she wanted a young female vocalist for her team and thinks Zoe could make the finale. John complimented her for showing so much polish at such a young age. Blake reminded Zoe that he’s the most experienced of the coaches in how to get an artist through The Voice. Zoe joined Team Legend.

ON TEAM BLAKE

Matthew McQueen, 21, Georgetown, Texas, “Someone You Love” by Lewis Capaldi: Matthew had Kelly Clarkson raving over his vocal tone no more than the song began. But she didn’t turn until well into the song after Matthew showed off a bit of grittiness in his vocal as well. Blake Shelton eventually turned as well. Kelly said she waited a while to turn because she wanted to see if he got nervous and was pleased that he didn’t. Nevertheless, Matthew opted to join Team Blake.

ON TEAM KELLY

Gracee Shriver, 16, of Owasso, Okla, “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves: No sooner has Blake Shelton filled his team that Gracee shows up on stage with a fine country voice. Especially for her age. She looks quite comfortable on stage too. Gracee coaxed chair turns from Kelly Clarkson and Gwen Stefani. Gwen said Gracee’s voice gave her chills. Kelly said she felt she’d go crazy is Gracee didn’t chose her. Guess it’s a good thing Gracee opted to join Team Kelly.

ON TEAM GWEN

Caroline Reilly, 16, Atlanta, Ga., “Somebody to Love” by Jefferson Airplane: Caroline Reilly was about midway through the song and a very solid vocal when she enticed a chair turn from Gwen Stefani, giving her the very last spot on Season 17. Gwen’s response: “Dreams do come true.” Gwen said Caroline’s voice sounds very mature for her age. Indeed, she provided a rousing end to the Season 16 blinds. Not to mention my favorite vocal of the night.

NO CHAIR TURNS