⁠"Why didn't I turn?" — The Voice's Kelsea Ballerini admits regretting not turning for Trevon Dawson

In a moment of musical regret, Kelsea Ballerini found herself questioning her decision-making during a recent episode of NBC's hit singing competition, The Voice. The newest coach on the show watched as 17-year-old Trevon Dawson from Cole Camp, Missouri, delivered a surprising performance that left her wondering about the opportunity she might have missed.

Dawson took to the stage and transformed Avril Lavigne's pop hit, "I'm With You," into what Ballerini described as a potential country classic. His rendition was so compelling that it prompted the coach to exclaim:

"Why didn't I turn?!"

This moment quickly became the episode's most talked-about soundbite. She further exclaimed:

"Cause if I didn't turn and could have, then I need to be absolutely fired."

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Trevon Dawson’s The Voice performance that started it all

Trevon Dawson's The Voice audition was anything but ordinary. Performing Bailey Zimmerman's "Religiously" earlier in the episode, the young singer had already caught the attention of coach Adam Levine, who ultimately selected him for his team. What made Dawson's performance stand out was his ability to infuse country magic into a pop song, a skill that impressed even those who didn't initially turn their chairs.

Ballerini's regret was palpable as she watched Dawson's performance. She admitted that while she had initially thought the song would suit another contestant better, Dawson's interpretation was nothing short of remarkable.

"But Trevon, the way you showed up, it could have been a song that was a country song at some point," she remarked, her words a mix of admiration and self-criticism.

The instructors began to joke around as a result of the incident. Ever the jester, Adam Levine couldn't help but make fun of coach Blake Shelton, who wasn't there, by emulating Shelton's response to the performance. After his performance, Michael Bublé even rushed out to give Dawson a hug, adding to the playful atmosphere.

Dawson's distinct vocal style was commended by John Legend, who highlighted the "shred" in his voice that distinguished him from the other competitors. Several coaches were impressed by the young singer's ability to modify and change a song, and Levine eventually signed him to his squad.

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The aftermath

Ballerini's public admission of regret became a defining moment of the episode. Her candid comment, "Cause if I didn't turn and could have, then I need to be absolutely fired," highlighted the competitive nature of the show and the split-second decisions coaches must make.

The performance by Trevon Dawson serves as a reminder of how erratic musical talent can be. A decision that may appear out of the ordinary can frequently result in a breakthrough. For Kelsea Ballerini, it served as a reminder to follow her gut and possibly a warning for further auditions.

Viewers can anticipate more unexpected turns, shocking performances, and coaches debating their choices as The Voice goes on. One thing is certain: Trevon Dawson's audition will be remembered as a standout moment of the season.

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The Voice airs Mondays at 8:00 pm on NBC, with all episodes available to stream on Peacock.