As of the 23rd season of The Voice, the show has been on the air for more than a decade. Over the years, its popularity has skyrocketed, launched several successful careers, and introduced the world to a wide array of talented singers.
At the heart of The Voice are the judges, comprised of music industry experts who offer their insight and advice to the contestants as they compete for the coveted title of The Voice. Each season, fans eagerly tune in to watch the judges guide and mentor the contestants, but as the show enters its 23rd season, many are asking: are the judges good enough?
While the current panel of judges consists of legendary performers and music icons, some fans have criticized their overall effectiveness throughout the season. So, let’s take a closer look at the four judges, critique their performances so far, and see whether they have what it takes to lead their respective teams to victory.
Blake Shelton: The Perennial Favorite
Blake Shelton is the only judge who has appeared on every season of The Voice thus far. As a result, he’s the one judge that viewers have come to know and trust. Shelton is often praised for his coaching abilities, witty sense of humor, and general likability. However, some argue that his approach to coaching hasn’t evolved over time, making him appear outdated and repetitive.
It’s also worth noting that Shelton has won the competition seven times, a feat that’s led some to question whether he’s too reliant on a specific formula. While Shelton’s success rate is impressive, it’s possible that his methods could be holding him back from achieving greater victories.
John Legend: The Voice of Reason
John Legend is a newcomer to The Voice, having joined the show in season 16. Despite being a relative newcomer, Legend’s expertise in the field of music is undeniable. He’s won multiple Grammy Awards, performed in some of the world’s most prestigious venues, and has had numerous hit songs over the years.
As a judge, Legend is revered for his thoughtful, empathetic, and patient demeanor. He’s often seen as a calming influence on the show, offering contestants a level-headed approach that can help them navigate the often hectic pace of the competition.
However, some fans have criticized Legend for not being forceful enough with his opinions. There have been moments where he’s withheld critical feedback, which has led some to believe that he’s too soft on the contestants.
Kelly Clarkson: The Empathetic Coach
Kelly Clarkson is a judge that fans admire for her bold, no-nonsense approach to coaching. She’s known for offering honest feedback, even when it’s tough to swallow. Clarkson has a unique perspective on the competition, having won the first-ever season of American Idol back in 2002.
As a result, Clarkson knows what it takes to win, and she’s often seen pushing her contestants to be their absolute best. Additionally, her open, friendly demeanor has made her a fan favorite, and many viewers appreciate her relatable and charming demeanor.
However, some fans have criticized Clarkson for being too emotional at times. While her heart is undoubtedly in the right place, there have been moments on the show where she’s let her emotions take over, which some viewers believe may not be the best way to coach the contestants.
Gwen Stefani: The Creative Mentor
Gwen Stefani has been a fixture on the music scene for more than three decades. As a solo artist and lead singer of the band No Doubt, she’s helped shape the sound of modern pop music. Stefani joined The Voice in season 7, and she’s garnered a reputation for being a creative and inspiring mentor to her team.
As a judge, Stefani is known for her forward-thinking approach, offering contestants unique and innovative ways to showcase their talent. Her artistic vision has helped contestants stand out from the pack, and many fans appreciate the creative flair she brings to the show.
However, some viewers have criticized Stefani for being too focused on style over substance. While her approach to coaching is undoubtedly creative, some argue that she sometimes prioritizes looks and performance over raw talent.
Final Thoughts
While the judges of The Voice Season 23 have proven themselves to be some of the most accomplished and talented people in the music industry, they’re not without their flaws. As the season goes on, it will be interesting to see how each coach evolves in their approach to coaching and whether they can guide their teams to victory.
Regardless of their individual strengths and weaknesses, one thing is clear: the judges of The Voice have succeeded in building a loyal fan base that continues to tune in season after season. Whether they’re good enough to lead their respective teams to victory remains to be seen, but for now, they’re doing enough to keep viewers engaged and entertained.
