Minneapolis singer wows judges, joins Team Blake on 'The Voice'

20-year-old Minneapolis artist Libianca's impressive range won over judges Ariana Grande and Blake Shelton.

October 5, 2021 at 12:56PM
Libianca scores on “The Voice” (NBC/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

A 20-year-old Minneapolis artist got past the blind auditions on the latest edition of "The Voice."

Libianca, who lives in Minnesota, wowed new judge Ariana Grande, who was the first to spin around in her chair shortly after the contestant launched into SZA's "Good Days."

"I'm obsessed," the pop star said after the performance. "You sound divine."

Blake Shelton also turned around, which means Libianca could choose who would be her coach moving forward in the competition. Both judges praised Libianca's incredible range, especially the way she owned the low notes. Grande was particularly enthusiastic.

So it was a bit of a surprise when she selected Shelton.

"No one saw that coming," judge Kelly Clarkson said.

Libianca's family was shown cheering her on from their Minneapolis home.

Libianca was born in the States, but spent much of her childhood in Cameroon.

"The Voice" airs at 7 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays on KARE, Ch. 11.

about the writer

about the writer

Neal Justin

Critic / Reporter

Neal Justin is the pop-culture critic, covering how Minnesotans spend their entertainment time. He also reviews stand-up comedy. Justin previously served as TV and music critic for the paper. He is the co-founder of JCamp, a non-profit program for high-school journalists, and works on many fronts to further diversity in newsrooms.

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