The Voice 20 Blind Audition: Jose Figueroa Jr.’s Silky Smooth Style Has John Legend Wondering Why He Didn’t Turn All 4
Although Jose Figueroa Jr., 35, from Kissimmee, Florida controlled his vocal runs, at times they didn’t feel super tasteful. I don’t think his song choice, “At This Moment” by Billy Vera, for his Monday (March 8) Blind Audition, has ever been done on The Voice. It was smooth, but the approach came off as a bit cheesy, as one run followed another. Jose is an exceptional vocalist; I just didn’t really feel the passion in his performance.
But vocally this was a solid effort. “At This Moment” must be Jose’s signature song, as multiple performances of the song by Jose can be found on YouTube. I found myself liking his “At This Moment” cover better than his audition. It had passion with a few growls and it was a bit more belty (Watch HERE) I wonder if his song choice had to do with wanting to deliver a more controlled vocal. Plus, he had to condense the arrangement down a bit.
Jose is a very gifted vocalist, but my concern is that he comes off as too cruise-shippy or pageanty. Here’s his incredible setlist of Bruno Mars songs that he performed (Watch HERE). His vocals are on point throughout. He does have energy for sure which makes sense as he teaches Zumba classes.
Coach John Legend says that it felt like “a four-chair turn” and that Jose had beautiful riffs and runs and dynamics and range throughout his audition. Kelly Clarkson notes how incredible his voice is, but believes there were too many runs. John argues that it is possible to manage those runs. Blake Shelton fights for Nick Jonas saying that he can picture them singing a duet. Nick simply says that it would “break his heart” if Jose picks John. John is convinced that his fellow coaches are conspiring against him. Blake jokes that Nick has to split his income in three, while Kelly claims Nick is willing to be vulnerable but John isn’t. Jose and Nick’s shiny/sparkly jackets are a match as Jose chooses Nick.
Jose’s sheer vocal ability may take him far in this competition, but I wonder if he will be viewers’ cup of tea. We will find out. According to his website, he is a pastor and a multiple award winning Gospel recording artist. Check out his website HERE. And his Instagram HERE.
The Voice 20 Blind Audition: Jose figueroa Jr. sings “At This Moment” by Billy Vera & the Beaters
