The Voice Blind Audition: Zania Alaké Does Anita Baker Justice (Video)

THE VOICE -- "Blind Auditions" Episode 2005 -- Pictured: Zania Alake -- (Photo by: Tyler Golden/NBC)
Pictured: Zania Alaké — (Photo by: Tyler Golden/NBC)

The Voice 20 Blind Audition: Zania Alaké Has A Star Name and is Elegant like Fine Wine

Zania Alaké, a 34-year-old from the motor city, Detroit, Michigan wowed the coaches during her The Voice Blind Audition on Monday (March 15). She has a 2-year-old and 3-year-old that she raises by herself as a single mom.

This was one of my favorite auditions of the season. She sang Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love,” and it’s not often that the 80s soul singer is covered on singing shows. Zania has a very elegant look that matches her elegant voice. There’s a jazziness to her vocal that makes her stand out. If you know some of my past voice favorites, I love a little bit of jazziness to a voice. I was a big fan of Oliv Blu a few seasons ago. She has strong belts as well. Zania had no problem with this super challenging song. In the process of nailing the performance, she turned coaches Kelly Clarkson and John Legend.

There are always a few standout female powerhouse R&B vocalists every season, and I think Zania is one of those. Her type doesn’t always go far. I think between her and Team Nick’s Dana Monique, I like Zania a bit better. The reason why I like Zania more is Zania is less like what we’ve seen before. Her style is more refreshing and controlled.

John notes the tradition of Detroit. Kelly says her voice is “timeless and classic” and “filled with butter”. She also exclaims that she has the type of voice where if you don’t turn, you feel like an idiot. John says he grew up on Anita, adding, “I just waited a few lines to make sure I knew you had what it takes to sing an Anita Baker song and do it justice”; he says she does and that it was “magical.”

Nick Jonas says that he didn’t turn because he needs to be extra picky with only a few spots left on his team. Nick asks if she’s leaning in a direction; John tells her not to answer and then the coaches joke about how she glances right towards John. He says,“we’re not going to be presumptuous about this.” Ultimately, Zania picks Team Legend. John continues his cheesy singing to the contestants when they pick him.

Zania is a total pro. She has been performing for years; check out her cover of No Doubt’s “Don’t Speak” from 7 years ago HERE. Her control was good then but has gotten even better over the years. Looking at her social media, she didn’t start posting again until about a year ago. My guess is Zania took time off to be a mother. Check out her take on the Jazmine Sullivan Insecure challenge HERE. And her cover of the late Bill Withers’ Lovely Day HERE. Check out Zania’s Instagram.

The Voice 20 Blind Audition: Zania Alaké sings Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love”

About Blake Busch 249 Articles
I am a graduate of Drake University with a BSBA in marketing and minor in data analytics. My favorite shows to follow are American Idol and The Voice. I also love crime thrillers, Top Chef, and Masterchef. My hobbies include cooking, baking, playing basketball, and watching sports.