Eden Prairie's Mark Andrew stayed loyal to his Minnesota roots, a decision that helped him advance Monday in the season premiere of "The Voice."
The 27-year-old roofer chose "Knockin' On Heaven's Door" by Iron Ranger Bob Dylan, which he dedicated to two former bandmates who have passed away.
Two of the four judges, Adam Levine and Shakira, quickly spun their chairs around.
"I am so passionate about you!" said Shakira, who, along with Usher, was making her debut as a judge.
Andrew, who goes by Mark Andrew Pudas locally -- shades of last year's local contestant Nicholas David Mrozinski -- eventually chose the Colombian-born pop star.
"I don't think my wife would forgive me if I didn't pick Shakira," he said.
Wow. Understanding wife.
The Minnesota connections may not be over for this season. Justyn Dow, an Owatonna native, has been posting on social media that he also had an audition. Stay tuned.
