Gwen Stefani has returned to “The Voice” but not without a sweet tribute that has fans talking!
As the iconic singing show kicks off its 24th season, there is a noticeable absence in the coaching lineup that fans have grown accustomed to — Blake Shelton. However, his wife made it a personal point of duty to remind fans that the “God Gave Me You” singer will be missed.
Gwen Stefani’s Sweet Tribute To Blake Shelton Will Make Your Heart Sing
The “What You Waiting For?” singer returned to the singing competition after her husband’s departure at the end of season 23 earlier this year. In a post that the mother-of-three shared, she was dressed in a flawless black-and-white checkered ensemble consisting of a long-sleeved jacket over a crop top and pants paired with a matching bow on her high ponytail.
However, the true standout was her signature jewelry. For the season 24 premiere, the “Wind It Up” artist proudly wore her cherished “Shelton” and “Stefani” necklaces, an obvious touching tribute to her husband of two years.
Sitting under the stunning lights, ready to witness the first Blind Auditions of the new season on “The Voice,” the jewelry shone and twinkled as it lay comfortably on her neck. Radiating style, her glam look featured a light pink glossy lip, blush, nude eyeshadow, and impeccably drawn eyebrows.
Instagram | Gwen Stefani
Alongside the snap, she penned in the caption, “feels good 2 b back in the @nbcthevoice chair 🙂 #thevoice #teamgwen.” As expected, her fans took to the comments with compliments. “That outfit is 🔥and you look absolutely gorgeous in it. Go girl,” an admirer gushed while another noted that they “Love your outfit!!!”
Some called her “queen,” “gorgeous,” and “THE PRETTIEST GIRL EVER,” while others excitedly wrote, “MOTHERS BAAAAACK,” and “Wow That’s Awesome 😍🤩.” At the same time, this supporter enthusiastically supported her, stating, “Get that crown queen 😍🔥🙌❤️.”
While it is not the inaugural appearance of Stefani’s gem on the show, it is the first time she has worn them without Shelton by her side. In the meantime, Reba McEntire has stepped into Shelton’s seat for her debut season as a coach.
The country music legend, who previously served as a battle advisor in season 1 and as a mega mentor in the just concluded one, will be joining Niall Horan, Gwen Stefani, and John Legend.
It is worth noting that the actress disclosed in 2020 that she was approached to be a coach in the inaugural season of “The Voice.” Unfortunately, she turned down the offer, paving the way for Shelton to step into her shoes. The 68-year-old had explained her decision, stating:
“It was a top-rated show in Holland, I’m pretty sure, and I watched the tape, and I said, ‘No, I’m going to pass on that,’ because I don’t think I could ever be able to tell somebody that they’re terrible or go find another job or hope you like your nighttime job. I couldn’t do that day in and day out. I couldn’t do it. So I did pass on it.”
But, after observing the show’s immense success, the “Consider Me Gone” hitmaker later admitted that she regretted her choice.
A Spectacular Start To Season 24 Of ‘The Voice’
As expectations soared for the Fall 2023 Season, it definitely delivered as it roared to life with a dazzling two-hour premiere. Among a formidable lineup of contestants, one artist stood out as a true “magical gem” – Mara Justine from Galloway, New Jersey.
Per NBC, her performance was nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an indelible mark on the season’s opening. While getting the most coveted 4-chair turn depends on song choice and vocal talent, the 21-year-old got both right as her rendition of Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” captivated the audience from the first notes.
Infusing the song with her unique touch, she instantly drew the judge’s attention as she sang the first lyrics, prompting Stefani and Legen to lose no time hitting their buzzers quickly.
After one more line, McEntire could not hold out and also turned. However, there was one more – Horan – and even he barely waited until the song’s end before giving in. The former “One Direction” member, fresh from his triumph with Gina Miles in Season 23, secured Justine the coveted 4-chair turn.
After the audition, Legend spoke of her performance, “The thing that made me turn around so quickly was your tone in that lower part of the song. Then you had the finesse to do those really light touches. I would love to have you on Team Legend.”
In expressing his eagerness to have her join him, the father-of-four pointed out that he was the first judge to turn. Referring to his other colleagues, “They just didn’t have the foresight that I had in understanding what a magical gem you are as a vocalist.”
At the same time, Horan stated in awe, “God, they make them different in Jersey. Someone that’s willing to go into the first round with an Elton John song and sing it like that, takes something.”
The 30-year-old then speculated about potential performances from Justine, suggesting, “If this is where you’ve set the bar, what are we going to see from you down the line? America is going to fall in love with that voice.”