**
[ Cheers and applause ]
Daly: Tonight, the playoffs begin.
* Shut your mouth, baby, stand and deliver * Oh, my God!
* Holy hands, will they make me a sinner? * Whoo-hoo-hoo!
Daly: And for the first time in "Voice" history... Ah!
...each coach has one super save.
Oh, my God!
Welcome back to "The Voice."
The coaches get to bring one person back.
Anybody out of any team.
And I have chosen you. [ Woman screams]
I love the super save.
You're just too good to stay at home.
Welcome to the playoffs.
This year, there are so many great artists
that we had to let go.
It gives them another chance... [ Shouts indistinctly ]
...to give another great performance.
* I can still hear you saying * Daly: With artists returning, the competition is fierce.
* You would never break the chain * Way to go, girl!
All of these artists are just, like, one step away
from the live shows and being in the top 12.
Wow. Perfect.
* I wanna take the walls down with you * John: I'm excited for the playoffs,
but the idea of cutting my team down from six to three
is making me a little anxious.
* Sometimes I feel like saying, "Lord, I just don't care" *
Niall: The stakes in the playoffs are so high,
and there are no steals or saves.
* But you've got the love I need to see me through * Niall: ...so I'm looking for artists
to really step up and show me that they're ready.
Whoo! Got goosebumps. That was good.
You haveto go to the lives.
Niall: And if you don't go to the lives,
Reba's getting fired. [ Laughter ]
Daly: First up, Team Niall takes the stage.
Alright. Tonight is all about Team Niall.
Niall's team is insane.
I don't know how Niall is going to make this decision.
I'm just glad I don't have to do it. Rough stuff.
I wouldn't want that job. I'm praying for him.
About all I can do.
This decision is going to be horrendous.
Oh, oh.
Nini!
[ Chuckling ] Hello! Look at that.
I'm so happy to be back! I'm glad.
Nini Iris -- she's got a huge voice.
She's got a great look.
She's like a ready-made pop star.
Nini: I'm so grateful for this chance
to prove I'm worthy of being here. You are.
Also, the fact that you gave me this song
is, like, mind-blowing.
Bishop Briggs' "River"
is the perfect song for Nini.
It's a big challenge,
but if anyone can step up to it,
it's Nini Iris.
* How do you fall in love? *
Nini: It's a very empowering song. * Harder than a bullet could hit ya? *
It's about going up to somebody and asking them
to push you to your limits. * How do you fall apart? *
In my case, I am singing this song to myself.
* Shut your mouth, baby, stand and deliver *
Growing up in the country of Georgia...
* Holy hands, will they make me a sinner? * ...it's always been such a dream
to come here and succeed on an American stage.
* Like a river, like a river * With this competition, I want to tell a story...
* Shut your mouth and run me like a... * ...that I've worked so hard, and I'm finally here...
* Choke this love till the veins start to shiver * ...and it's possible.
I just really have to bring my 200% of Nini.
It's getting to the point where it's funny
how good you are. [ Laughs ]
I think you should sing the first verse straighter.
* How do you fall in love? *
Just really concentrate on them small moments
'cause they're so effective.
It's like blind auditions Nini,
but, like, bigger and better. Mm-hmm.
And slayer. Just slay the verse and slay the chorus,
and then just mic drop.
Nini has had some big performances,
but [Chuckling] this one's going to blow everyone away.
You need to give us a big moment,
because all of a sudden,
like, six turns into three straightaway.
I'm this close to make it to the top 12 to the live shows.
I need to deliver the best performance of my entire life.
Like, I want him to, like, look at other coaches
while I'm performing and, like, go like,
"Yeah, she's on my team." [ Laughs ]
[ Cheers and applause ]
Did you style her, Niall?
Yes. Yes?
Can you not tell? Obviously.
Wow, cool outfit.
With "River," here's Nini Iris.
[ Cheers and applause ]
* Like a river, like a river *
* How do you fall in love? *
* Harder than a bullet could hit ya? *
* How do you fall apart? *
* Faster than a hair pin trigger? *
* Don't you say, don't you say it *
* Don't say, don't you say it *
* One breath, it'll just break it *
* So shut your mouth and run me like a river *
* Shut your mouth, baby, stand and deliver *
* Holy hands, will they make me a sinner? *
* Like a river, like a river *
* Shut your mouth and run me like a river *
Whoo!
* Tales of an endless heart *
* Cursed is the fool who's willing *
* Can't change the way we are *
* One kiss away from killing *
* Don't you say, don't you say it *
* Don't say, don't you say *
* One breath, it'll just break it *
* So shut your mouth *
* And run me like a... * * Run me like a river *
* Shut your mouth, baby, stand and deliver *
* Holy hands, will they make me a sinner? *
* Like a river, like a river *
* Shut your mouth *
* And run me like a... * * Run me like a river *
* Choke this love *
* One last breath till the tears start to wither *
[ Laughing ] * Woooo *
* Like a river, like a river *
* Shut your mouth and run me like a river *
[ Cheers and applause ]
Whoo-hoo-hoo!
Daly: That is Nini Iris. Wow, a lot of power.
Now, let's get some thoughts from our coaches.
Gwen, we'll start with you. Gwen: Wow.
You can do anything with your voice.
But yet you are so tasteful, you don't overdo it.
You're always, like, building it to the right moment.
And I just think that you're so gifted.
You have such an intuition about yourself,
and that's what we want.
I thought it was incredible.
Thank you so much. Thank you, Gwen. John?
You just every week are showing that you're a real star.
And you present yourself with such confidence and such skill.
I am just genuinely amazed by you.
We all wish we had you on our team.
[ Laughter ]
Great job, Nini. Thank you so much.
Queen Reba.
Hey, Nini. Hi.
I loved your performance.
I think you are a very strong vocalist,
but I'm going to disagree a little bit.
I love the strong woman song,
but I think you took it just a little bit too far
in your choreography.
But you're great. I love your voice.
Daly: Fair enough. Thank you, Reba.
Thank you so much. Coach Niall?
Every time you come out here, it gets better and better.
And the notes you hit get more powerful.
We're missing that in the industry.
There's no big belters out there that have such control
and such a uniqueness to them like you do.
I'm just constantly blown away by you.
How about another big hand for Nini Iris,
ladies and gentlemen? [ Cheers and applause ]
Gwen: Nini -- it's beyond understanding
that someone can sing [Chuckling] the way she does,
so she's definitely a threat.
Yes, Nini! Killed it.
I have to send three people home.
If this is a sign of what's to come,
we're in for a night of insane performances.
Jesus, she can sing. I know. It's crazy.
She's a no-brainer.
Daly: Coming up... * From the daylight, runnin' from the daylight *
Whoo-whoo! Daly: ...artists give the performances of their lives
hoping to earn one of the final three spots on Team Niall.
You're already a star.
It's a no-brainer to go to the lives.
They're all no-brainers, Niall.
Why?!
* This is "The Voice" *
Daly: Welcome back to the playoffs
at Universal Studios Hollywood.
John: I like your outfit, Reba. And look.
You got your rocker chains back there... Gwen: Yes!
...and then Gwen's rock star Barbie.
I didn't realize everyone was going to, like, up the stakes.
This is just me going to the store.
[ Laughs ]
Wow, Niall. Team Niall's looking good.
I'm excited, but I'm also really nervous.
I don't know what you're gonna do.
I know, I don't... I don't know what --
I don't know what I'm going to do, either.
It's going to be really painful. Yeah.
Alright, I'm going to learn from you today, okay? Mm-hmm.
So, let's go watch. Let's do it.
Oh, I'm nervous now. [ Laughs ]
Niall: My save. Claudia: Twice!
Hello. I'm indebted -- indebted to you.
Niall: Claudia's growth from the blind auditions to now,
it's night and day.
I saved you because what you did was just undeniable.
So jazzy and beautiful.
It felt like you were the only person in the room.
John was, like, nearly standing on his chair.
I was like, "Ooh, ooh, oh! Hmm."
[ Laughter ]
I've got a lot of love for Claudia.
She used to be Team Legend... Yes!
...and then I had a chance to steal her.
Daly: Whoa! Whoa!
She's an amazing vocalist.
I'm so happy that she's here.
I'm gonna stay on Niall.
I just wish she would have been on Team Legend.
Claudia: I'm feeling a little bit nervous
'cause it feels real all of a sudden,
but I love this song.
Great pick. It's so popular.
* At night when the stars... *
Niall: For the playoffs, Claudia will sing
"Talking to the Moon" by Bruno Mars.
* ...light up my room * Whoo!
* I sit by myself * Claudia would fit right in in the music industry right now.
She's got a bit of a jazz influence.
* Talking to the moon * She's got an R&B influence.
She's got a singer/songwriter voice.
We're really missing a lot of that.
And this is the perfect song for Claudia to show who Claudia is.
Can you attach yourself to this emotionally? Yeah.
'Cause that would help. Oh, yeah. I'm missing someone right now.
Oh, yeah, your fiancé. Yeah.
This is the longest I've ever been apart
from my fiancé, Jacob.
Another week, another gig.
At home, I see him pretty much all day.
He's also a musician. We gig together.
So it's so much motivation for me... * Ohh, ohh, ohhh *
...because I've been gone so long,
I have to make it worth it.
Whew! That's so good.
I think you just need to get even more emotional.
Open your eyes. Look down the camera. Yeah.
Some of our favorite singers of all time
are the people that can tell the story the best. Mm-hmm. Yeah.
Thank you for saying that.
From Art Garfunkel to Adele. Yeah.
I can't do any acrobatics at all,
but I'll sell you a dream. [ Laughs ]
The stakes are higher than ever this round.
* ...out there, somewhere far away * Yeah.
So, I want to make Niall proud.
* Talking to the moon * I want to make him say,
"Yeah, that's why I kept her two times in a row."
* Ohh, ohh, ohhh * Whoo-hoo!
I think Claudia is going to make John regret letting her go.
This is my favorite one yet. Less is more.
If she can nail her performance
in a pressurized environment like that,
she's got a real chance of making it to the lives.
[ Cheers and applause ]
Go, Claudia!
With "Talking to the Moon," here's Claudia B.
**
* I know you're somewhere out there *
* Somewhere far away *
* I want you back *
* My neighbors think I'm crazy *
* But they don't understand *
* You're all I had *
* At night when the stars light up my room *
* I sit by myself *
* Talking to the moon *
* Tryna get to you *
* In hopes you're on the other side *
* Talking to me, too *
* Or am I a fool *
* Who sits alone, talking to the moon? *
* Oh, oh, oh, oh, ahh *
Yes!
* 'Cause every night I'm talking to the moon *
* Still tryna get to you, oh, ohh *
* In hopes you're on the other side *
* Talking to me, too *
* Or am I a fool *
* Who sits alone, talking to the moon? *
* Ohh, ohh, ohhh *
[ Cheers and applause ]
Whoo-whoo!
Team Niall in the spotlight on the playoffs tonight.
Claudia, great job.
Let's go to your former coach. You remember John Legend.
John, what did you think? Hi, John.
Claudia, you sound as good as ever.
Thank you. Your voice is even richer today
than I think you've even been in the past round. Mm.
I think my favorite performance is still the Norah Jones song,
capturing the essence of who you are
as a vocalist and as a musician.
But this is really beautiful, as well.
Thank you. Thank you. Reba?
Claudia, I'm a huge Bruno Mars fan,
and I love this song.
And you made it your own song.
I was totally captivated by yourvoice.
It's smooth as butter, just like honey.
She's a strong contender.
Very good job. Thank you, Reba.
High praise from the other coaches.
Claudia, let's see what your coach thought. Niall?
Oh, I'm so glad I saved you. [ Laughter ]
Me, too. Me, too.
I know, right?
That was beautiful. Thank you.
The early part of that song was just so beautiful.
I had goosebumps, like, listening to it. Me, too. Mm-hmm.
It was so pretty. So pretty.
You definitely made my decision even harder
than I ever thought it was going to be.
Aah! [ Laughter ]
Definitely not going to be easy.
Another big hand for Claudia B., everybody!
[ Cheers and applause ]
Yes, Claudia!
Reba: I really like Claudia B. a lot.
Tonight was one of her best performances,
and it's going to make it a lot harder on Niall.
So good!
Claudia's got a bit of everything in her voice.
It was a really, really tasteful performance.
Between Nini and Claudia, Team Niall is on fire.
* This is "The Voice" *
Daly: Welcome back.
[ Cheers and applause ]
Now it's the Virginia blues rocker
who's showing a different side tonight.
Here's more from Huntley.
Niall: How's it going? The gentle giant.
I know, now it's just me and the ladies, dude. I know!
We're having girls night, doing, like, the face masks. [ Laughs ]
Why did you choose me, brother?
Dude, your tone is amazing.
* Ooh, there's darkness in the distance *
* From the way that I've been livin' * Niall: For the playoffs, Huntley's doing
"Daylight" by David Kushner.
* Oh, you know I can't resist it * This song requires an emotional person and a big voice.
And with Huntley, we've got both of them in abundance.
* Oh, I love it and I hate it at the same time *
Are you thinking what I'm thinking?
Man: It could go up another half step, probably.
We could try.
You sound really comfortable there.
And I don't like that for you. Alright, alright.
[ Both laugh ]
And then, like, do a fill-in or something.
[ Imitates drums ]
Yeah, we'll build it.
Thank you, guys. More cowbell!
More -- [ Laughs ]
Apparently it was a huge song on TikTok
before it was, like -- That's how my daughter knew it.
And when was the last time you were home? [ Breathes deeply ]
Like, almost two months. Really?
This is one of my daughter's favorite songs.
She likes singing really emotional songs,
to where she can close her eyes and just feel it.
And I'm like, I wonder who she gets that from.
[ Voice breaking ] She definitely is, like,
one of the things in my life
that kept me in the light. [ Chuckles ]
She gave me something to fight for, her and my son.
One of the -- the -- Sorry.
I really miss them.
One of my goals was just to make it through
so they can know that they can follow their dreams.
* ...all of our sins from the daylight *
* From the daylight, runnin' from the daylight *
Niall: The music industry is missing
a big, soulful rock voice like Huntley's.
I think it sounds great, bud. Thank you, dude. Seriously, bro.
I'm very happy for you. Thank you.
If he just leans into his strengths in the playoffs,
the sky is the limit for Huntley.
Hey!
Singing "Daylight," here's Huntley.
[ Cheers and applause ]
**
* Telling myself I won't go there *
* Oh, but I know that I won't care *
* Tryna wash away all the blood I've spilt *
* Ooooh *
* Ooh, there's darkness in the distance *
* From the way that I've been livin' *
* Oh, you know I can't resist it *
* Oh, I love it * * Oh, I love it and I hate it at the same time *
* You and I drink the poison from the same vine *
* Oh, I love it and hate it at the same time *
* Hidin' all of our sins from the daylight *
* From the daylight, runnin' from the daylight *
* Oh, I love it and I hate it at the same time *
* Tellin' myself it's the last time *
* Can you spare any mercy that you might find? *
* Please don't leave me in the end *
* Ooh, there's darkness in the distance *
* I'm begging for forgiveness *
* Oh, you know I might resist it *
* Oh, I love it and I hate it at the same time *
* You and I drink the poison from the same vine *
* Oh, I love it and I hate it at the same time *
* Hidin' all of our sins from the daylight *
* From the daylight, runnin' from the daylight *
* Oh, I love it and I hate it at the same time *
[ Cheers and applause ]
[ Laughs ]
**
Thank you. Thank you.
Daly: That is Huntley, ladies and gentlemen.
It is the playoffs on "The Voice."
Gwen, what'd you think?
I just can't believe how amazing [Chuckling] you are
every single time.
Your actual vocal ability,
especially in, like, the lane of music that you do
and your style of singing, it is masterful.
You have such great stage presence and -- Thank you so much.
I just can't believe you don't already have a whole album.
If I had a label, I would just, like, snatch you.
You're amazing. Thank you so much.
You're so amazing. You're one of my idols, so I appreciate that so much.
John, what'd you think?
What you're giving us onstage
is well beyond a competition.
You're already a star.
You carry yourself that way with confidence,
with that distinctive voice.
And the execution every time is just flawless.
It's beyond the lives.
You belong as one of the Grammy-winning artists
that are singing in our finale.
[ Cheers and applause ]
Wow. Niall.
I mean, your whole team is stacked like this.
[ Laughing ] It's crazy.
You -- You have to only pick three of six.
Don't know how I'm going to decide it,
but all I can say is, Huntley, it's just insane.
I threw -- I don't know if you guys know this phrase --
a spanner in the works,
but, like, a wrench in the works.
Is that, like, how would you say? A wrench? Yes.
A wrench. We can -- Spanner is the same.
Do the Irish version.
We're going to edit that out.
[ Laughter ]
I-I kind of threw a spanner in the works with this song,
but I wanted to see if he would step up to a song
that he wouldn't necessarily pick.
Wow, Huntley.
Thank you. That is some performance.
First of all, that's the best you've ever sung it.
I gave it my all today, man.
Everybody here loves you. Everyone thinks you're amazing.
And I know for a fact that the people of America
have just been falling in love with you more and more.
You're one of those people
that's got something to say to the world.
And when you have a voice like that,
that's going to be one hell of an album,
and I'm going to buy it.
Me, too. Thank you guys so much.
How about another big hand for Huntley,
ladies and gentlemen? [ Cheers and applause ]
Huntley sounds like an artist
that should be selling out arenas.
He's so, so good.
Team Niall has some amazing artists on it... Yeah.
...and they're definitely a threat going to the lives.
He is so talented. That dude is ridiculous.
I'd definitely keep him. Niall: I don't know what to do.
I think this is the worst decision.
Yeah, 'cause they're the cream of the crop.
Six to... Three.
Yeah. That's hard.
I know.
* This is "The Voice" *
Daly: Welcome back to the playoffs.
Woman: Love you, Reba! Woman #2: Love you, Reba!
Woman #3: Love you, Niall!
[ Audience cheering ]
[ Laughs ]
Alright, Niall, tell us about the artist
that you brought back for your super save.
Oh, I'm so glad I've got a super save.
The talent was so amazing in the knockouts.
So, for the playoffs, we added a new twist.
This artist was just unbelievable.
And I just couldn't lose a voice that good that early.
And I'm glad I have it.
Each coach got to bring back one artist from any team
as a super save.
Julia -- Are you record-- Stop it.
Would you like to go back to eighth grade,
or would you like to come back to "The Voice" on Team Niall?
[ Crying ] Oh, my God.
You were so good. You deserve to go nowhere.
If I had a save, I would have used it.
* Yeah, I'm unstoppable toda-a-a-a-a... *
Niall: What she did in that knockout
was nothing short of incredible.
* ...a-a-a-a-a-a-y * * Unstoppable today *
Niall: So the opportunity to save one person
from the whole show this year... * Unstoppable *
...was a game changer. * Unstoppable today *
And I had to bring Julia.
We're going to the playoffs, baby.
Yes! [ Laughs ]
I'll see you -- Team Niall slay!
I'll see you soon.
Come on, Super Save. Show us what you're made of.
Super Save -- I like that name.
When I got the call, I thought Niall was AI.
'Cause, like [chuckles] you never know these days.
I feel like a superhero. Yeah.
[ Deep voice ] Julia Roome is Super Save. [ Laughs ]
I'm so thankful to be able to work with Niall again.
For me, that just says that he believes in me.
* You with the sad eyes *
* Don't be discouraged * The song that I will be singing for playoffs
is "True Colors" by Cyndi Lauper.
Being sent home gave me a new perspective of this song,
so I'm super excited to sell the story
that I'm just going to come back stronger. * Because you know I'll be there *
* I'll see your true colors shining through *
I definitely feel like I have to prove myself.
I have to top what I did, because this is the song
that could possibly make me get to lives.
It's so good. Thank you.
I think we need to just watch out
for where it gets busy around the ends of the verses
and, you know, like words, like, "Though I realize,"
and then bite "it." Yeah.
* Though I realize it's... * * Realize it's... *
Just, like, let it just... [breathes sharply] Mm-hmm.
Let that fall away, make it as small as possible,
and nearly speak it, but it feels really good. [ Speaking indistinctly ]
You should feel really confident in this. Yeah, I feel really good.
This is something that you can do
and really just grab on to all the emotion
of leaving and then coming back.
Niall: I've seen so much growth from Julia.
To think that that girl is 13 is mind-blowing.
She can really sell a story.
This is her time to show us her true colors
and show us why she's back on "The Voice."
* Super Save! *
[ Laughs ] Off she goes. [ Laughs ]
[ Cheers and applause ]
Singing "True Colors," here's Julia Roome.
[ Cheers and applause ]
**
* You with the sad eyes *
* Don't be discouraged *
* Though I realize it's hard to take courage *
* In a world full of people, you can lose sight of it all *
* And the darkness inside you can make you feel so small *
* But I see your true colors shining through *
* I see your true colors, and that's why I love you *
* So don't be afraid to let them show *
* Your true colors *
* True colors are beautiful like a rainbow *
* Show me a smile, then *
* Don't be unhappy *
* Can't remember when *
* When I last saw you laughing *
* If this world makes you crazy *
* And you've taken all you can bear *
* You call me up *
* Because you know I'll be there *
* I'll see your true colors shining through *
* I see your true colors, and that's why I love you *
* So don't be afraid to let them shooow *
* True colors *
* True colors are beautiful *
* Like a rainbow * Wow.
* Oooo * Yeah!
[ Cheers and applause ]
**
Yes!
Whoo!
Julia Roome, everybody.
Fantastic job, Julia. Gwen, talk to us.
Oh, my God, Julia.
I'm so happy you're still here. [ Sighs ]
You're able to really be so emotional with your voice
and just the choices that you make
with every single inflection that you do.
I'm excited to see what's going to happen with you
'cause you are amazing.
Thank you. [ Cheers and applause ]
John. John: Last round of knockouts,
I thought it was one of the best performances by anyone.
And today, you showed that power in your voice, too,
but it also had some moments that were more tender.
The fact that you can do all of that with so much power
at the age of 13 is pretty phenomenal.
Thank you so much. [ Cheers and applause ]
Alright, let's hear what your coach thought. Niall?
I'm so glad that we had a super save.
There was no way we could allow you to leave this competition.
I'm just so proud of you.
You're an incredible talent
with such character, control, uniqueness.
And you have made my decision extremely difficult.
You know how stacked this team is.
How I'm going to turn six to three, I don't know.
What are you going to do about that?
We need to have a chat in the dressing room afterwards,
because I think I might actually need your help, Carson.
I'm here to help, buddy. [ Laughs ] Cheers.
How about another big hand for the work of Julia?
[ Cheers and applause ] Julia: Thank you.
Go, Julia! Whoo! [ Sighs ]
Wow, Julia absolutely proved why she deserved my super save.
Thank you!
I love her. [ Chuckling ] I love her.
I'm not okay right now.
I might pass out. Send help.
She is sogood. Crazy good.
She's really, really, really good.
She's got a fun personality, too.
Yep, just a 13-year-old kid.
Exactly. Then she starts singing.
You're going, "Oh, my gosh, this is an old soul."
Mm-hmm.
* This is "The Voice" *
Daly: Welcome back.
One of these days, I'm gonna do the slate, guys.
Man: You can do it today if you want.
Want it today? Can I, please?
I've been waiting my whole life.
You will hold it. [ Gasps ]
Camera mark.
[ Squeals ] * Yeah, yeah, yeah *
Yes! Finally, she makes it home. * Whoa, whoa, oh-oh-oh *
**
Whoa! We got two steals!
I've been waiting since the blind auditions, Day One,
to get Mara Justine on my team.
Until John Legend sung with you...
I knew this was coming. [ Laughs ] ...in your blind audition,
where were you going?
Just asking for a friend.
Mara is one of my favorite voices on the show.
She's an amazing person, really bubbly character.
But now I'm here.
Maybe we can get to sing together.
I'm not singing with you. You're too good. Oh!
And she just adds to Team Niall perfectly.
I'm so excited we get to hear you sing
this absolute monster of a tune.
I don't think a song could suit me more perfectly.
I'm singing "You've Got the Love"
by Florence + the Machine.
* Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air * The message of this song is so impactful
because I'm literally feeling every lyric... * I know I can count on you *
...like, to my core.
* Sometimes I feel like saying, "Lord, I just don't care" * When my mom gave me the news
they found more cancer,
I kind of questioned the meaning of life, to be honest.
This song brought me back to that moment.
[ Chuckling ] Sorry.
[ Voice breaking ] Just what's the use in all this?
* Time after time, I think, "Oh, Lord, what's the use?" *
But this journey has been
the most incredible blessing ever.
She's seeing me up on this big stage,
just bringing the good news.
And that literally gives her, like, strength.
That was so good. [ Chuckles ]
Wow. Thank you.
I think some melody changes just to Mara-fy it.
Oh, I like that. Yeah.
And then dynamics is the only thing.
Just go in nice on the first verse.
* Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air *
A little bit throwaway, as well.
* Sometimes I feel like saying, "Lord, I just don't care" *
Exactly like that.
Okay. And then... * You got the love *
Niall: Mara reminds me of Olivia Rodrigo.
* You got the love * She's got that big powerhouse young pop voice.
Be as intense on the smaller bits. Okay.
Do you know that Mara face crunch that you do? How is it?
I literally just took, like, a screenshot in my head. Take it. Go on.
* Sometimes I feel like... * She feels the lyrics.
* ...throwing my hands up in the air * She's good at telling a story.
* 'Cause I know... * And I really want her to attach all of that
to this song in a big moment. * I can count on you, oh *
You are, like, one in a million. [ Laughs ]
My God, my decision is going to be so hard.
With "You've Got the Love," here's Mara Justine.
[ Cheers and applause ]
* Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air *
* I know I can count on you *
* Sometimes I feel like saying, "Lord, I just don't care" *
* But you've got the love I need to see me through *
* Sometimes it seems the going is just too rough *
* And things go wrong no matter what I do *
Yeah.
* Now and then it seems that life is just too much *
* But you got the love I need to see me through *
* When friends are gone, I know my savior's love *
* Is real *
* You know it's real *
* 'Cause you got the love *
* You got the love *
* Time after time, I think, "Oh, Lord, what's the use?" *
* Time after time, I think it's just no good *
* 'Cause sooner or later in life *
* The things you love, you lose *
* But you got the love I need to see me through * Whoo!
[ Cheers and applause ]
* You got the love *
* Ha! *
* You got the love *
* You got the lo-o-o-o-o-ve *
* You got the love, you got the love, you got the love *
* Come on! *
* Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air *
* 'Cause I know I can count on you, oh *
* Sometimes I feel like saying, "Lord, I just don't care" *
* But you've got the love I need to see me through *
Whoo-hoo!
[ Cheers and applause ]
[ Laughs ]
Daly: Mara Justine for Team Niall in the playoffs!
So good!
Mara, great job. So fun to watch.
It's such a great night of music.
Let's go to your former coach, John Legend.
Tapping into that falsetto finesse was a real revelation
because I think people saw a different side of your voice,
and it just gave you that much more character.
This was your best moment so far on this show,
other than singing a duet with me at the beginning.
That was -- That was awful!
[ Laughter ]
Thank you, Coach. Reba? Thank you so much.
It was an emotional roller coaster of excitement
watching you perform.
And your vocals are so good. [ Laughs ]
Way to go. Thank you, Coach.
Thank you. Thank you. Gwen?
What I love most about you is just you're so you.
I just think that you're an amazing star already.
And I really think it's a no-brainer to go to the lives.
I mean, you have what it takes to be a live performer.
It's amazing.
Well, he's heard that a lot tonight. Whoo-hoo!
They're all no-brainers, Niall. Thanks.
[ Laughing ] No! Your whole team!
They are. John: Six no-brainers.
Why?!
Tell us about Mara's performance.
You know, we had a great chat about making the verses
and the outro of the song really small and tender.
And I thought you did it unbelievably well today.
And I don't want to say I told you so,
but I told you so. [ Chuckles ]
And, yes, Carson, she has made my decision even tougher.
[ Laughter ]
How about another hand for Mara Justine,
ladies and gentlemen?
[ Cheers and applause ]
Wow.
That is Mara's best performance of the whole season.
That was so good! Thank you!
I want a really diverse team heading to the live shows.
I don't know who I'm going to choose,
but I do know that I need a strong team of storytellers.
Whew! One more.
Daly: Now it's the singer/songwriter from Colorado
who's taking on a '90s classic.
Here's more from Alexa Wildish.
How are you? Alexa: Oh, man.
I'm just, like, in total awe that I get to be here.
There's a talent that you have that I don't think
anybody else in the competition has,
never mind -- maybe even the world.
[ Chuckles ] Niall: Alexa has this ability to sell a song
unlike anyone I've ever seen.
She reminds me so much of stuff I grew up on.
So, to hear a nostalgic tone like Alexa's
is something so refreshing that we need in the music industry.
This is honestly one of my favorite songs.
"Fields of Gold." Oh, my God.
I actually sang it for my grandmother's memorial service.
No way. Yeah.
It, like, really brings back
being in the presence of her when she was passing.
* You'll remember me *
* When the west wind moves * Alexa: Saying goodbye to my grandmother was
one of the most sacred and powerful experiences
I've ever had.
* Among the fields of barley *
When she passed away,
there was this absolutely golden sunset.
And I honestly feel like it was my grandmother speaking to me.
* ...walked in fields of gold *
If my grandmother knew that I was on "The Voice,"
she would be insanely proud of me.
My grandmother, she was definitely a realist,
and I'm kind of a dreamer,
but she always knew that I could do this.
Thanks, Grandma. Yeah. [ Chuckles ]
* You'll remember me *
* When the west wind moves * Niall: "Fields of Gold"
is a perfect song for Alexa because it really tells a story,
and even if you don't know what the song's about,
it would make you feel something.
* ...of barley *
If Alexa can give us that emotion
on the night, in the moment,
she could potentially advance to the live shows.
Whew. Takes it out of me, man.
[ Laughs ] Oh, my God.
The only note I would say is we need to just work on
straightening out a couple of the lines back to the original.
Okay. Okay. You're doing enough,
and the way you're singing it is making it
really special. Okay, cool.
You have been unstoppable up until this point.
[ Breathes sharply ]
So, do what you just did there. Okay.
I've got goosebumps even talking to you about it. [ Laughs ]
Get out of here, please, before I... I will get out!
Alexa: I want to go to the live shows so badly.
I can feel it in my bones.
I'm dreaming about it at night.
See you later. Keep in touch. You know where I am.
Oh, I know where you are. Yes.
Let's go, world. I'm ready.
That is some crazy stuff.
* This is "The Voice" *
Daly: Welcome back to the playoffs.
[ Cheers and applause ]
Singing "Fields of Gold," here's Alexa Wildish.
* Oooooo *
* You'll remember me *
* When the west wind moves *
* Among the fields of barley *
* You can tell the sun in his jealous sky *
* When we walked in fields of gold *
* So she took her love *
* For to gaze a while *
* Among the fields of barley *
* In his arms she fell as her hair came down *
* Among the fields of gold *
**
* I never made promises lightly *
* And there have been some that I've broken *
* But I swear in the days still left *
* We will walk in fields of gold *
* You'll remember me *
* When the west wind moves *
* Among the fields of barley *
* You can tell the sun in his jealous sky *
* When we walked in fields of gold *
* When we walked in fields *
* Of gold *
**
[ Cheers and applause ]
**
Daly: Alexa Wildish, ladies and gentlemen. [ Laughs ]
[ Cheers and applause ]
Let's get some thoughts from our coaches.
Queen Reba.
Ooh, Alexa, that was a great performance.
I love your voice.
I heard every word you were singing. Thank you.
Mama was a big stickler on enunciations. Yeah. [ Laughs ]
You have made it extra hard for our buddy over here
trying to make a decision.
Daly: Thank you, Reba. Thank you.
John? No one else is like you in this competition.
That would be an interesting way to form a team with somebody
that's so distinct and executes it so well, like you do.
Thank you so much, John.
Alright, Niall, give us some thoughts, buddy.
Hi, Niall. [ Laughs ] You bleed emotion and authenticity.
It's been so good to watch you amongst all the big belters. Mm.
And that's the biggest compliment
that I can give you because you stand out, I think.
This girl is ridiculously talented,
and the world will see it at some point. Thank you.
How about another big hand for Alexa Wildish,
ladies and gentlemen? [ Cheers and applause ]
Alexa is one of my favorites.
She's a pro behind that microphone.
She's a great storyteller.
After hearing all this amazing talent,
I'm sure glad it's not my job to choose
which three have to go home.
That's tough.
No more stalling, Niall.
This is it. Decision time.
Ladies and gentlemen, let's bring out
all the members of Team Niall.
Yeah!
[ Cheers and applause ]
Yes!
Daly: Six stellar performances from Team Niall tonight.
[ Cheers and applause continue ]
What's up, guys? Hey! Hi!
Oh, no!
Oh! I need to hold your hand.
Daly: Alexa, Claudia, Huntley, Julia, Mara, and Nini.
Only three can represent Coach Niall
in the top 12 live show.
Niall, how are you feeling?
Scared. [ Laughter ]
To turn six to three is just crazy to me.
I have enjoyed working with all of you so much.
We see a lot of great singers, but I think we've got
a lot of great artists, especially on this team.
[ Cheers and applause ]
Alright, Niall.
Let's get right to it. [ Sighs ]
Who is the first artist moving on?
[ Dramatic music plays ]
**
The first artist moving on to the lives is...
**
...Huntley.
Huntley, congratulations!
You're in the top 12... for Team Niall! [ Cheers and applause ]
Huntley's got such an individual tone in his voice.
He's a machine onstage, unbelievable performer.
I appreciate it. Thank you guys so much.
There's not many voices like his,
and there's a real spot for him in our industry.
Okay.
Niall, who is the second artist moving on?
[ Dramatic music plays ]
Oh, my Lord.
[ Laughter ] Ohh!
How do I have to do this?
Look at that team.
Second artist moving on is...
...Nini.
Yes! Nini, moving on to the top 12!
Nini is the most ready.
She knows exactly who she is.
Whoo! [ Laughter ]
She could win this whole thing.
Are you listening, America?
Ahh!
Oh, man. Oh, man.
[ Chuckling ] Oh, my God. It's so hard.
Daly: And this is it.
Four incredible artists are left.
Niall, who is the last artist moving on?
It's just crazy that I have to, like, make this decision.
I just don't know how -- how I do it.
I'm on the edge of my seat, Niall.
Me, too. [ Laughs ]
I actually feel sick right now for you.
I know. Me, too. I do.
John: This is rough.
[ Dramatic music plays ]
The third artist moving on...
Please.
...is...
Please.
**
...Mara.
Daly: Mara, congratulations!
You're advancing to the top 12!
Mara's perfect for the live shows
because of the energy she brings,
the control, the quality of her voice.
She's so exciting for this competition.
Team Niall! Yeah!
And, ladies and gentlemen, please put your hands together
for three great artists from Team Niall
who leave us tonight. Oh, my God! Poor Niall.
Oh, my gosh.
Niall: Moving into the live shows,
I think we all know that Team Niall is the team to beat.
The three moving forward are so strong
and also completely different singers.
[ All cheering ]
I won Season 23, and I have a good feeling
the winner of Season 24 is on Team Niall.
**