'The Voice' semis: Sofronio Vasquez channels his inner Michael Bublé to rescue tough song pick
To qualify for the live finale, the top eight artists on 'The Voice' Season 26 delivered their first live performances in front of coaches Michael Bublé, Snoop Dogg, Reba McEntire, and Gwen Stefani on Monday, December 2. Viewers can cast their votes for their favorite performers. The results will be revealed by host Carson Daly during the live NBC show on Tuesday, December 3.
Sofronio Vasquez, a powerhouse vocalist and one of the Top 8 artists, delivered a standout performance on Monday's episode. Michael boasts the strongest squad in the Live Show, with Sofronio positioning the coach for a remarkable victory in his debut season.
Sofronio Vasquez dedicated 'The Voice' Season 26 semi-finals solo to his mum
The Filipino singer currently resides in Utica, New York. At a hockey game recently, he sang the National Anthem for the first time. He thanked his mother by performing for her during the Live Show. While the song feels outdated and not to our liking, we’re likely in the minority. With this choice, he’s poised to cruise into the finale.
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Michael Buble tries to ease shaky Sofronio Vasquez ahead of 'The Voice' Season 26 semi-finals solo
What happened to Sofronio in between the duet and his solo? He appeared shaken up, and Michael stated that he had the bravery to perform. Nerves, perhaps? Sofronio closed the show with a performance of Elvis Presley's 'If I Can Dream. Following the standing ovation by coaches, Michael Buble congratulated him on his performance and for persevering despite "all the adversity" he was facing.
One of our favorite competitors, Michael's 'Filipino Phenom,' completely appropriated Elvis Presley's classic. His voice was almost unimaginably powerful and as sweet as caramel. Each time, we thought his tank must be empty—but he kept going. An outstanding performance.
Sofronio Vasquez sounded Buble'ish during 'The Voice' Season 26 semi-finals
Although Sofronio is a powerful belter, he avoids sounding clichéd by adding his unique twists to the lyrics. His videos have already garnered millions of views online. He could win. Michael described Sofronio as powerful—a man who has overcome hardship. "I’m so happy for you," he said.
Despite our reservations about the song selection, Sofronio was the only one who hit the correct notes on Monday night. He elevates every song he sings, delivering anthemic performances that make each one unforgettable. Such a classic vocal technique—executing all the riffs and trills before holding out the big notes. Exciting! Sofronio sounded great, almost Bublé-esque, but we enjoyed it.
'The Voice' Season 26 airs on Mondays at 8 pm ET and Tuesdays at 9 pm ET on NBC. All episodes are available to stream on Peacock.