When Michael Bublé heard Rob Cole sing, he knew immediately he couldn’t risk letting Reba McEntire scoop him up. Acting fast, Bublé used his one and only block to keep the country legend from adding Rob to her team.
Thirty-four-year-old Rob Cole, a North Carolina native, may look familiar to longtime The Voice fans. He previously auditioned during Season 25 in 2024, performing Billy Currington’s “Must Be Doin’ Something Right.” Although none of the coaches turned their chairs at the time, Rob still earned praise for his strong vocals and undeniable potential.
Refusing to let that setback define him, Rob returned a year later for Season 28, determined to make his second chance count. This time, he chose Chris Stapleton’s “Joy of My Life,” a performance that showcased his growth, confidence, and emotional depth.
It didn’t take long for Michael Bublé to turn his chair. Clearly impressed, Bublé went a step further and hit his block button to prevent Reba—often called The Voice’s country queen—from joining the competition for Rob. Moments later, Reba turned her chair, only to realize she’d been blocked. Her stunned reaction said it all.
Snoop Dogg and Niall Horan didn’t turn their chairs, and with Reba blocked, Rob was automatically claimed by Team Bublé. Michael couldn’t resist teasing Reba, joking that he blocked her because he loved her—and because he couldn’t let her compete for such a powerful voice.
Despite missing out on Rob, Reba was thrilled to see him succeed. After learning he had auditioned before, she remembered his earlier appearance and praised his persistence. “I’m so glad you’re in now,” she told him.
Rob summed up his journey with a simple but powerful message: “No does not mean never.” His return proved that perseverance pays off—and this time, it earned him a well-deserved spot on The Voice.