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'The Voice' Season 24: Lila Forde moves coaches and fans with tearjerking rendition of Joni Mitchell's 'River' during semifinals

As part of the 'Fan Week' episode, Lila Forde fulfilled everyone's wishes by performing a mesmerizing rendition of Joni Mitchell's 'River'

UNIVERSAL CITY, CALIFORNIA: Lila Forde sang the fan-favorite song 'River' by Joni Mitchell as the closing performance in the semifinals held on Monday, December 11. Soon after she finished singing, not only the 'The Voice' coaches but also the audience were serenaded by her voice.

Notably, fans of the talent show have wanted Forde to sing a Mitchell song since the Blind Auditions. During the semifinals, the singer fulfilled a childhood ambition by performing 'River' by Mitchell on stage in front of a massive audience. 

Forde sobbed as she described how much it means to her to have coach John Legend's complete support and encouragement, noting, "I know I'm good enough to make it to the finale. I know I'm good enough to win this thing. And it's changed my life."

Legend broke down in tears as he told Forde that her performance was outstanding, leading to a warm embrace between the two as the contestant sobbed. 

After getting what they have always wanted, fans on Reddit wrote, "Jesus, talk about something in Lila's wheelhouse. She was built for Joni's songs." Another user added, "Niall’s reaction to Lila’s performance was literally mine; I feel like I’ve been hypnotized in the best way, lol 😄!"

One wrote, "Lila got my vote 🫶🏻," while an individual noted, "My vote is going to Lila for sure. She moves me every time she sings."

"My girl Lila is the only one who makes me cry 💜," expressed a person, with others appreciating Forde's "excellent" voice. 

Chance the Rapper wanted Lila Forde to perform a Joni Mitchell song on 'The Voice' Season 24

Forde gave everyone what they wanted after 'The Voice' Blind Auditions, where she gave the 70s singer-songwriter vibes she could muster. 

Even guest mentor Chance the Rapper encouraged the Team Legend vocalist from Seattle to take on Mitchell last week. It felt natural that it was finally occurring during the Top 9 semifinals, which also happened to be labeled "Fan Week."

Interestingly, the viewers of 'The Voice' got to suggest songs for their favorite performers to perform, and no wonder everyone wanted to experience Forde's rendition of a classic Mitchell song. 

Who is 'The Voice' Season 24's Lila Forde?

Forde's artistic career was formed by her mother, a brilliant concert pianist known for her knowledge of classical music and crystal bowls.

Her parents, raised in a spiritual household in Seattle, have spent the last 20 years as meditation teachers and the last five as proud proprietors of a meditation camp resort tucked in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Forde's parents arrange immersive experiences for their visitors, such as sound baths and meditation retreats. Owing to her musical prowess, 'The Voice' contestant studied jazz voice at the USC Thornton School of Music, where she fell in love with songwriting.

Last fall, Forde embarked on her first tour, touring Europe as the opening act for LA singer-songwriter Rachel Mazer. She now sings at posh hotels, farmers markets, and private gatherings and is presently working on her debut album, which she was able to create thanks to a $16,000 Kickstarter campaign.

How do I vote for Lila Forde on 'The Voice' Season 24?

One can simply visit the website or the official app of 'The Voice' to vote for their favorite contestants. You may only vote once per email address, so choose wisely. 

Remember, voting concludes at 4 am PT/7 am ET.

'The Voice' Season 24 airs every Monday at 8 pm ET and Tuesday at 9 pm ET on NBC.