The Voice Season 26 Episode 1 Recap: Kicking Off the Blind Auditions

The Voice season 26 debuted exclusively on NBC on September 23, 2024, at 8 PM PT/ET. This Emmy award-winning singing competition marked the return of esteemed judges Gwen Stefani and Reba McEntire, along with the addition of two exciting new coaches, Snoop Dogg and Michael Bublé.

This season of the popular reality TV show retained its familiar format while introducing a few minor modifications. The competition comprises five rounds: Blind Auditions, Battle Rounds, Knockouts, Playoffs, and Live Performance Shows.

The first episode commenced with the Blind Auditions, adhering to the show’s traditional structure. During this stage, judges pressed a button to turn their chairs toward the performances they enjoyed. If multiple judges turned their chairs, the contestant had the opportunity to select their preferred mentor. As the season progresses, each coach will build a team of 14 artists to guide through each successive round.

The synopsis for the premiere episode read:

“The competition is fierce as Snoop Dogg and Michael Bublé each claim their red chairs; alongside returning coaches Reba McEntire and Gwen Stefani, they all vie to discover and coach the next singing phenomenon.”

The Voice Season 26 Episode 1: Jake Tankersley Performs First

A standout moment from The Voice season 26 episode 1 was the inaugural performance by Jake Tankersley from Oklahoma. The singer shared his commitment as a father and his desire to serve as a role model for his four children. On stage, Jake delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Something in the Orange,”which led both Snoop and Gwen to turn their chairs in admiration.

Initially, Jake earned four chair turns, but Gwen strategically blocked Reba. Ultimately, Jake chose Snoop as his mentor. Snoop expressed his excitement about having Jake on his team, emphasizing the potential for Jake’s voice to “shake up the world”in the entertainment industry.

Following Jake was Sofronio Vasquez, who also garnered a four-chair turn. The Philippine artist impressed the judges with his performance of “I’m Goin’ Down.”

After Sofronio’s audition, judge Michael discussed his personal connection to the Philippines and encouraged Sofronio to join him for artistic growth throughout the competition. Sofronio was drawn to Michael’s mentorship and became the first member of Team Bublé.

During The Voice season 26, artist Ravs took the stage to perform Doja Cat’s “Say So”in hopes of impressing the judges. Unfortunately, none of the mentors turned their chairs; however, they provided constructive feedback.

Reba suggested that Ravs choose a different song to better showcase her vocal capabilities, while Gwen advised her to practice more to minimize any vocal fluctuations during her performance. In a lighthearted exchange, Ravs gifted Snoop Dogg a painted jacket, and in return, he lent her his Death Row Records necklace.

The episode culminated in a stunning performance by 15-year-old Sydney Sterlace, who sang Olivia Rodrigo’s “Driver’s License,”garnering a standing ovation from all four judges. She decided to choose Gwen as her mentor, who encouraged her to discover her unique voice.

Stream The Voice season 26 exclusively on NBC.

Source