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'The Voice' Season 25 finale: Internet slams 'full-time belter' Karen Waldrup's 'out of breath' performance

Karen Waldrup delivered a powerful rendition of Rascal Flatts' hit song 'What Hurts the Most' during the first round of 'The Voice' Season 25 finale

UNIVERSAL CITY, CALIFORNIA: Karen Waldrup wrapped up the first round of 'The Voice' Season 25 finale on Monday, May 20. However, some fans felt that the NBC singer held back her emotions, delivering mainly "screams," a move that could potentially jeopardize her shot at the title.

Karen spoke with Dan + Shay and Carson Daly about her journey this season. Carson highlighted how Dan + Shay prevented Reba McEntire from picking Karen, and she claimed it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

Dan + Shay praised Karen for guiding them to the finale. During her performance of Rascal Flatts' 'What Hurts the Most,' each coach leaped to their feet, applauding Karen's rendition.

Dan Smyers stated, "The performance right there is what will win you 'The Voice." Shay Mooney welcomed Karen into the country music scene, saying, "We're so proud of you."

However, on X, fans voiced their discontent, with one stating, "She won’t win .. not good enough . Josh is the voice on the radio . Karen screams and there is no journey or story." Another fan added, "Yeah I just need Karen to be more emotionally present. Shes not able to access the lyric in a resonant way and its holding her back."

One fan noted, "She sounded like she was singing at top volume the whole time. I just prefer a more dynamic, melodic voice than a full-time belter." Another wrote, "That's a shame. Karen didn't have the breath control for that song."

Some users also commented, "Karen is good, but we don’t need another female country singer." Others sighed, "Karen girl… you know better than to sing Rascal Flatts.."

Disappointed fans also commented, "Where’s the emotion, Karen??? She doesn’t have the breath for this song either. I’m disappointed." Another person added, "Karen and Dan and Shay should have attempted to change the arrangement of this song for Karen, or find better ways to let her breathe..."

Who is Karen Waldrup in 'The Voice' Season 25?

Karen is a country music vocalist based in Nashville, Tennessee. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, she is a full-time singer-songwriter.

The budding country artist began singing as a child and playing guitar when she was sixteen. In 2008, she graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi and relocated to Nashville to pursue her music career.

Karen is not just a musician; she is also deeply involved in humanitarian activities. She has performed for The Manifest Foundation, Heroes in the Zone, and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society's Golf Tournament Benefit.

'The Voice' Season 25 finalist Karen Waldrup has been touring worldwide for years

Karen's debut album, 'Justified,' was released in 2018, followed by the EP 'Kendall Country Road' in 2023. Additionally, she is also a BMI songwriter and a member of the Recording Academy and the Country Music Association.

Karen has also taken her music across borders, touring the world and captivating audiences in 15 countries with her performances. Karen was featured on Bravo's 'Platinum Hit' in 2011, although she was eliminated during week three, ultimately finishing in tenth place.

Karen has shared the stage with numerous well-known artists throughout her career. She has previously opened for Rodney Atkins, Carrie Underwood, Hank Williams Jr, Sara Evans, and Terri Clark, among others.

Is 'The Voice' Season 25 finalist Karen Waldrup single?

Karen and her boyfriend, Cody, celebrated their third anniversary in September 2023.

'The Voice' Season 25 finale results are to be announced on May 21 at 9 pm ET on NBC. The 'The Voice' part one finale is now live, and fans have until May 21 at 7 am ET to cast their votes!