Well, there we have it folks! The third season of “The Voice” concluded with a tremendous, star-studded show and crowned its first female winner, Cassadee Pope, as the newly-reigning queen of reality singing competitions. Pope’s win also continues Team Blake’s winning streak, as Blake Shelton’s team member Jermaine Paul took home the gold in Season 2, which is sure to give Shelton ten times more bragging opportunities come Season 4.
Things haven’t been looking too good for Team Cee Lo or Team Christina as neither have been able to secure a victory. Cee Lo’s contestant, soulful oddball crooner Nicholas David, came close last night, eventually earning third place, but it was ultimately between Scottish rocker Terry McDermott and the aforementioned Pope to battle it out for the $100,000 recording contract.
While Pope was considered a fron- runner by a lot of critics and fans alike, I can’t help but be a little disappointed in the results. There’s no denying it; the girl can sing. But Terry McDermott really brought it this season with his unwavering, powerhouse voice and how he seemed to just ooze that rock star appeal. Maybe I’m biased because of his awesome accent, but the guy owned that stage.
Well, you can’t win ‘em all. And let’s face it: None of the contestants at this stage were really going home empty-handed anyway. Cee Lo spread some holiday cheer by giving each of the three finalists their very own Kia to drive off into the sunset with, and I’m sure both Nicholas David and Terry McDermott will be getting recording contracts based off their strong performances throughout the season.
Prizes aside, the two-hour finale was also marked with performances from a whole range of popular artists, including Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Bruno Mars, and even Peter Frampton (!). The finalists also got the chance to perform a number of hit songs with past contestants, making for a lively ending to a stellar season of the hit show.
Seeing as how “The Voice” will be returning in the spring with a whole new crop of talent, we barely have enough time to sit and reflect before the fun starts all over again. One aspect that will surely help keep viewers is the temporary replacement of Christina and Cee Lo, who have touring and other commitments to attend to but will return for the fall season. Will new judges Shakira and Usher be able to live up to the hype and keep the momentum going? Time will tell!