Reality TV Star of the Week: Asher HaVon creates history as first Alabamian, LGBTQ winner of 'The Voice'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Asher HaVon has made history by becoming the first openly LGBTQ contestant to win the acclaimed reality singing competition, 'The Voice'. The momentous occasion took place during the grand finale of 'The Voice' Season 25, which was broadcast on Tuesday, May 21.
In a recent interview with Extra, the Alabama native opened up about his emotions following his historic win, the significance of his achievement, his experience working alongside coach Reba McEntire, and his plans for the future. After his big win, HaVon shared, “I’m feeling really good… I’m a little sleepy, but I’m feeling really great.”
Talking about how he felt about participating in 'The Voice', he said, “I came into this competition not believing much of anything, you know, other than I thought I could sing a little bit. I was excited to see where this journey would take me, and so that was the mindset I came in with.”
When asked about making history, Havon said, "It means everything. You know, giving the community that I’m a part of a voice, a face, a sound, I think it’s a really big deal for sure.”
'The Voice' Season 25 winner Asher HaVon began singing at a young age
Asher HaVon, a native of Alabama, hails from the city of Selma and has always expressed his deep pride in his hometown, attributing much of his personal and artistic development to its influence.
From a young age, HaVon's musical talents were nurtured by his mother, who encouraged him to sing as early as age 5. It was in elementary school that his passion for singing truly blossomed, largely due to the guidance of his teacher, Joslyn Reddick, who introduced him to the joy of performing in front of his peers.
Since then, HaVon's dedication to music has remained steadfast, as reported by the Selma Sun. HaVon's upbringing as a gospel singer in the church has profoundly influenced his current musical style as a pop and R&B artist.
His early exposure to the powerful and soulful sounds of gospel music has shaped the way he approaches his music, infusing it with emotion, passion, and a deep connection to his faith.
This background has not only shaped his vocal delivery and songwriting but has also deeply influenced his stage presence and overall artistry. HaVon's distinct blend of gospel, pop, and R&B elements gives rise to a sound that is both uplifting and soulful, striking a chord with audiences of all backgrounds.
His music carries a message of hope, love, and positivity, echoing the values and beliefs instilled in him during his formative years as a gospel singer in the church. Overall, HaVon's musical journey serves as a testament to the power of music to transcend genres and unite people through shared experiences and emotions.
'The Voice' Season 25 winner Asher HaVon says Reba McEntire 'changed my life'
Asher HaVon shares a deep connection with his mentor Reba McEntire, whom he affectionately refers to as his 'mama.' Following his victory on the show, he took to his Instagram page to express his gratitude for her support and credited her with changing his life. He declared that he would always be her son, showcasing the strong bond between them.
He started by writing, "Wow! I am speechless! I am the Winner of @nbcthevoice Season 25! I am truly humbled and grateful for this moment. " "First, Thank you to God for this gift and this opportunity to share it. Thank you to @nbcthevoice for continuing to give this platform for us to showcase our gifts," he further added.
HaVon continued, "Thank you to Mama @Reba. You have changed my life and created a milestone in my life that I will have forever. I am your son for life ❤️." "Thank you to my Family, Friends, Team and Fans (My Halos)! Thank you for listening, tuning in and voting This is because of you!" he concluded.
Asher HaVon's confidence grew after participating on 'The Voice' Season 25
Before his appearance on 'The Voice,' HaVon had taken a two-year hiatus from singing and was struggling with low self-confidence.
During the break between the playoff rounds and the live shows, HaVon confessed in an interview with Parade that he constantly checked his email to reassure himself that his success on the show was indeed happening. He found it difficult to believe that he had made it to the top 20.
“I was very uncertain about a lot of things in life including my voice. I didn't feel worthy to be here. I thought it was a joke. I thought they felt sorry for me. They heard my sad story and they had me on the show," he said.
Receiving a three-chair turn was a significant turning point for HaVon, as he described it as the ultimate confirmation of his talent. He expressed that when Reba McEntire decided to turn around, he felt a sense of security and comfort upon seeing her friendly and welcoming smile.
This moment served as a reassurance for HaVon, boosting his confidence and reaffirming his passion for music. HaVon told the outlet, "So, from Blinds to now, I definitely feel I am where I belong. I have grown in confidence. I've grown believing in myself. I told the producer, ‘I think I've healed on national TV."
