Chevel Shepherd, hailing from the quaint town of Farmington, New Mexico, embodies a remarkable blend of talent and charm despite her diminutive stature of 4’10». Her enthralling voice, far surpassing her physical dimensions, captivated audiences worldwide during her debut on Season 15 of The Voice.
Taking the stage for her blind audition, Chevel chose to showcase her vocal prowess with a rendition of «The Band Perry’s» 2010 hit. Despite visible nerves shaking her voice initially, her innate talent shone through. Kelly Clarkson, quick to recognize Chevel’s potential, eagerly turned her chair within moments of the performance’s commencement.
As Chevel’s naturally raspy voice unfolded, Blake Shelton too was drawn to her talent, completing the duo of coaches vying for her attention. The remaining judges deliberated as Chevel’s confidence soared, her voice resonating throughout the auditorium. Jennifer Hudson joined the fold, leaving only Adam Levine without a turned chair.
The judges, visibly impressed, showered Chevel with praise following her audition. Kelly Clarkson, acknowledging her initial nerves, expressed a desire to nurture her talent, likening her voice to the iconic Dolly Parton’s.
Jennifer Hudson lauded Chevel’s voice as «pure and beautiful,» while Blake Shelton foresaw tremendous growth for her on the show—an intuition that proved prophetic. Week after week, Chevel’s voice blossomed, fueled by experience and burgeoning confidence.
Amidst playful banter between Blake and Kelly, each vying for Chevel’s allegiance, she unexpectedly chose Kelly as her mentor. Kelly Clarkson proved to be the perfect guide for Chevel, culminating in her triumph as the season’s winner on December 19.
Reflecting on her whirlwind journey on The Voice, Chevel remarked, «It’s been surreal to have this opportunity.» Few teenagers, let alone 16-year-olds, are afforded the chance to grace The Voice stage, serenading a global audience under the mentorship of esteemed artists like Kelly Clarkson, Mariah Carey, and Thomas Rhett. It has truly been an extraordinary and life-altering experience for her.
