The Voice Live Cross Battles end this week. The 2nd set of 16 contestants performed on Monday (April 22) and the best was NOT saved for last. Last week was stuffed with the best singers and a bunch of steals and saves. I believe three remain. So get ready to see a bloodbath, as five contestants are eliminated.
There were a few great performances, however. Poor Rebecca Howell doesn’t stand a chance against powerhouse pro singer, Beth Griffith Manley. I would pick LB Crew in his battle vs Jej Vinson. But that’s probably a matter of taste–I preferred LB’s powerful gospel vibe to Jej’s easygoing pop.
Will the Cross Battles return next year? I saw one headline that basically blamed the new twist for the shortened final round. But the blame really belongs to NBC. Eliminating four Tuesday shows is why The Voice is still wrestling with the Top 32 in mid April. If NBC is cutting episodes, the middle rounds should be reconfigured from top to bottom. I think the show is better with at least 5 weeks of finals. However, the ratings were lowest during the lives last season.
I don’t hate the Life Cross Battles. Sure, the premise is contrived–I doubt that the coaches are picking who to challenge on the spot. But the live format made for some exciting moments.
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