Fans of The Voice expressed growing frustration after week three of the blind auditions, criticizing the show for advancing singers they believe are already well-established in the music industry. Viewers took issue with the judges for turning their chairs for Grammy-nominated artists, arguing that the competition should focus on discovering lesser-known talent.
During Monday night’s episode of season 25, judges Chance the Rapper, John Legend, Reba McEntire, and Dan + Shay passed several strong vocalists. However, backlash quickly followed when fans noticed that some contestants with notable professional resumes received instant chair turns.
The controversy centered on Grammy-nominated singers Bryan David Olesen and Kamalei Kawa’a, both of whom advanced to the next round. Many viewers voiced their displeasure on social media, questioning how artists with prior industry recognition were eligible to compete. “I thought The Voice was for aspiring artists,” one fan wrote, while another bluntly added that allowing already established performers felt unfair.
Bryan Olesen impressed the judges with his rendition of OneRepublic’s “Love Runs Out,” earning a spot on John Legend’s team. Before appearing on The Voice, Olesen was a founding member of the Christian rock band VOTA and previously performed with the Newsboys from 2004 to 2006. He now hopes the show will help launch his solo career.
Meanwhile, Hawaii native Kamalei Kawa’a delivered a powerful performance of Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song,” which resonated deeply with both the judges and the audience. Kamalei was nominated for a Grammy in 2012 for Best Regional Roots Music Album for his release Lovely Sunrise and ultimately joined Chance the Rapper’s team.
While the judges praised both artists’ talent and stage presence, many fans remain divided, continuing to question whether The Voice should prioritize emerging singers over performers with established careers.