‘The Voice’s Kelly Clarkson Made Kelsea Ballerini Realize She Wanted To Make Music
Country artist Kelsea Ballerini has been filling in for Kelly Clarkson, who was out sick for the Battle Rounds of The Voice. She has always been open about being a fan of Clarkson.
After learning of contestant Ainae Nielsen deciding to become a professional singer after seeing The Weeknd in concert, Ballerini too shared a story of what put her in her current path.
Ballerini’s 'A-ha' Moment Was Listening To Clarkson Sing
Ballerini revealed she decided to pursue a musical career after listening to Clarkson perform.
Like your a-ha moment, I had that moment at a Kelly Clarkson show. I was in the Civic Coliseum in Knoxville. She was singing “Behind These Hazel Eyes,” and I was like, ‘I have to do this with my life.’
The country artist encouraged the contestant, saying that no matter where you are performing, giving someone that "a-ha" moment was a really cool gift.
Ballerini Filled In For Clarkson
Clarkson was feeling under the weather and had Ballerini take her place during the "Battle Rounds." But when speaking to ET, Ballerini provided more detail on how she landed on Kelly’s coaching seat.
I was home in Nashville and got a text from Kelly at like 9 p.m., like, ‘Hey, girl… I’m not feeling well. I don’t have COVID, but with the protocols, don’t feel safe going to set. Could you cover the battle rounds for me?’
Thank you so much @KelseaBallerini for sitting in for me while I was feeling under the weather! I know my team is in great hands with you!! Y'all aren't going to want to miss this!! The battles start next week on @NBCTheVoice! #TeamKelly #TheVoice pic.twitter.com/qA7qSOpk5y — Kelly Clarkson (@kellyclarkson) March 23, 2021
Ballerini got on the plane immediately and studied everything on the way. She also revealed that she received helpful texts from Clarkson, who was watching a livestream.
Additionally, her experience of serving as the fifth coach for singers on season 15’s “Comeback Stage” segment and Team Kelly’s celebrity mentor during season 16 also helped.
Ariana Grande Will Replace Nick Jonas Next Season
Ballerini has been on The Voice since March 29 when host Carson Daly let the viewers know that Clarkson was not feeling well.
Her time substituting for Clarkson has ended with this episode and many fans have shown their support towards the country artist. Fans have also been vocal about wanting Clarkson back in her seat.
Ballerini's exit and Clarkson's return aren’t the only changes the singing program will have in the future. Pop star Ariana Grande will replace Nick Jonas to join Clarkson, Blake Shelton, and John Legend for The Voice’s 21st season.
Grande tweeted about the upcoming change.
surprise !!! i am beyond thrilled, honored, excited to be joining @kellyclarkson @johnlegend @blakeshelton next season ~ season 21 of @nbcthevoice ! 🤠@nickjonas we will miss you pic.twitter.com/BAmaXxDVLp — Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) March 30, 2021
Jonas also welcomed Grande to the family. “Congrats @ArianaGrande ! You’re going to kill it next season! Welcome to the family," he tweeted.