By RODNEY HO/ rho@ajc.com, originally filed Wednesday, November 11, 2015
The first live cut for "The Voice" was brutal as half the 24 contestants had to go home Wednesday night.
Only one of the three metro Atlantans (and four Georgians) made it into the top 12: Zach Seabaugh of Marietta.
The 17 year old, who has been dubbed "Superman" by his mentor Blake Shelton due to his preternaturally good looks, can also sing - and garner votes to boot. His hip-shaking rendition of Steve Holy's "Brand New Girlfriend" got him into the top 12 via public vote. (Eight of the 12 were by vote and the other four were picked by their respective judges).
The others didn't fare so well. The oldest remaining contestant Regina Love failed to make it to the next round for Team Gwen Stefani after risking it all by tackling Adele's hella-difficult "Hello." Gwen ultimately saved Korin Bukowski instead.
Over on Team Pharrell Williams, Riley Biederer's "Should've Been Us" received plaudits but not enough votes despite her social media following. And Pharrell didn't choose to save her, going with Emily Ann Roberts.
Calhoun's Elle Lawrence, who had been eliminated in the knockout rounds, was brought back as the "comeback" player for Team Gwen. She performed "Ex's and Oh's" but didn't garner enough votes or Gwen's save.
Here is the top 12, which has four country singers and just one minority.
Jeffery Austin – Team Gwen – Saved by America
Braiden Sunshine – Team Gwen – Saved by America
Korin Bukowski – Team Gwen – Saved by Gwen
Barrett Baber – Team Blake – Saved by America
Zach Seabaugh – Team Blake – Saved by America
Emily Ann Roberts – Team Blake – Saved by Blake
Madi Davis – Team Pharrell – Saved by America
Evan McKeel – Team Pharrell – Saved by America
Mark Hood – Team Pharrell – Saved by Pharrell
Jordin Smith – Team Adam – Saved by America
Shelby Brown – Team Adam – Saved by America
Amy Vachal – Team Adam – Saved by Adam
About the Author