Music

One young singer’s outstanding cover performance of ‘How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)” captivated the audience and the judges on American Idol. 

The current season of American Idol is quickly approaching its season finale, during which another winner will be crowned and named the next American Idol. However, before a winner can be named, the contestants must continue to battle it out, week after week, showing their musical talent to the judges, the audience and those watching at home.

The competition on American Idol is always fierce. All the contestants badly want to become the next winner. That’s why they must continually turn out one astounding vocal performance after another. One off performance or even a missed note could be the difference between winning the competition and going home.

In his latest appearance on the popular program, Roman Collins gave a stunning vocal performance, showing off his voice and ability to play to the crowd. He sang Marvin Gaye’s hit “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You.)” 

It was a show-stopping performance. Roman started belting out the lyrics, and seconds into the performance, the judges were already impressed. Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan both audibly registered their approval of Roman’s rendition of the Marvin Gaye classic.

Luke said, “Wow,” several times before standing up and clapping to the tune's beat. Katy Perry and Luke even began dancing around as Roman provided the sweet, soulful sounds. 

Not long after Luke and Katy’s dance routine, Lionel and Jelly Roll are also on their feet as they enjoy Roman’s impeccable vocal performance on the outdoor American Idol stage. 

It’s unclear what critiques or complaints someone could have about Roman’s performance, which was marvelous! It should be listened to and watched multiple times.

Psalm 104:33 “I will make songs to the Lord all my life; I will make melody to my God while I have my being.”

Two supremely talented and musically gifted siblings, The Malpass Brothers, turned in a spirited and soul-stirring rendition of the beloved gospel tune “Keep Your Eyes on Jesus.”

The world is full of distractions. Due to the rushed and often frenetic nature of everyday life, it can be easy to become too focused on something happening or going on in one’s life. Yes, life, what happens in our lives, and those friends and loved ones in our lives are important. 

But it’s essential to keep things in perspective. What may seem like a monumental, life-changing matter at the time probably means very little in the long run. All people tend to do that, but what did that pressing issue really mean in the grand scheme? Not very much at all.

That’s why keeping our focus and eyes on Jesus Christ is paramount. The Bible says in Matthew that we are first to seek His kingdom and righteousness and all these things will be added unto you. 

Also, Christ will offer His guidance and care during life’s storms. He has always been faithful; there is no reason to believe He won’t be this time.

In a clip posted on YouTube, The Malpass Brothers sing a tune about remaining focused on Christ and avoiding the many distractions in life that can change our focus and attention.

“Keep your eyes on Jesus

When the tidal waves of trouble ‘round you roll

Keep your eyes on Jesus

He will calm the storms of life that cost your soul”

That is an absolutely beautifully written chorus about Christ’s love, protection, guidance and faithfulness. Those lyrics are also words that Christ’s followers can trust and live by, knowing that whatever may come up and happen, He is still in control and at work.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

American Idol contestant Kennedy Reid’s stunning cover performance of the timeless classic “Fancy” had all three judges on their feet.

There are some songs and performers that only a few people would dare to cover. Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, The Beatles, and Elvis Presley fall into that exclusive category. Their songs and sound are so iconic, memorable and beloved that everyone can instantly detect any error, slip-up or variation from the original. 

Another legendary performer who fits into that category is Reba McEntire. She has produced dozens of timeless tunes throughout her illustrious and successful career. She did not earn the nickname “The Queen of Country Music” for nothing. If you’re going to cover a Reba song, you better bring it because if not, you’re setting yourself up for failure.

In a clip posted on YouTube, Kennedy did just that and more with her cover of “Fancy.” She sounded absolutely terrific as she let loose and brought so much energy and enthusiasm to her performance. 

Her stunning performance brought all the judges – Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan – to their feet. She owned the stage, giving the impression that she had been doing this for years.

“Well, I remember it all very well, lookin’ back

It was the summer I turned eighteen

We lived in a one-room, rundown shack

On the outskirts of New Orleans”

You don’t have to be a country music or a Reba fan to appreciate Kennedy’s performance. It was so energetic and enthusiastic. It was an entertaining and infectious performance in which Kennedy showed off her vocal skills and her ability to play to the audience and get them involved. 

It's safe to say that Kennedy will be tough to beat as the competition progresses. That performance is sure to resonate with people voting.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

A young woman turned in a spectacular performance, nailing her cover of Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best” on American Idol.

The latest season of American Idol is moving along quickly, swiftly approaching its inevitable conclusion. The judges – Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan – have whittled the group of aspiring singers down, sending many of them home after they failed to meet and exceed their expectations.

The program has reached the portion of the season where the American public has a say in who stays and goes home. So now, not only are the participants performing for the three judges, but they must also win the hearts and votes of people watching at home. 

From the thousands who tried out to the hundreds who made it onto the show, only 24 singers remain. Now, the contestants are in Hawaii, at Disney’s Aulani resort, where they all take the stage and sing in front of a live audience on the beach.

One of the people who has made it through the series of cuts is Nya. In a clip posted on YouTube, the young woman takes the stage and dazzles the audience and those watching at home with a beautiful rendition of a timeless classic from the late Tina Turner, “Simply the Best.”

As Nya sings two of the song’s verses, it’s clear that everyone loves what they hear from the young woman. They shout, cheer and clap, showing her their approval and appreciation. However, when she reaches the song’s memorable chorus, the audience really lets her hear it.

“You’re simply the best

Better than all the rest

Better than anyone

Anyone I’ve ever met”

Nya is an incredibly talented young singer who will be tough to beat. It will be interesting to see how far her talented and unique-sounding voice will take her in the competition.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Legendary actress and singer Judy Garland turns in a superb performance of the timeless tune “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

Since the invention of music, musicians have likely been covering and playing one another’s tunes. This time-honored tradition has been practiced for years and will likely continue well into the future. It’s a way to honor and pay respect to someone else and their work.

Also, who doesn’t want to hear different interpretations of classic songs? How would The Beatles’ “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” sound if Dolly Parton, Pentatonix, or some other artist or group performed it? I’m sure they would add something to it to make it their own and leave their mark. But, of course, we all know that “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” will forever and always be a Beatles tune.

While everyone loves covers of classic songs every now and then, the original version is best, most of the time. Paul Simon’s and Art Garfunkel’s “Sound of Silence” has been covered by nearly every artist and band in existence, but the original is still far and away the superior version.

Another song that gets the cover treatment a lot is “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” the song Judy Garland performed in “The Wizard of Oz,” the beloved 1939 film. Sure, some of the covers of that lovely song over the years are enjoyable, but Judy’s version remains number one. No one will ever top it. 

In a clip posted on social media, Judy is captured on camera beautifully singing those memorable and iconic lyrics. 

“Somewhere I’ll wish upon a star

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

Away above the chimney tops, that’s where you’ll find me”

Kelly Clarkson, Willie Nelson, Ariana Grande and many others have covered the iconic song, but Judy Garland’s original is simply unmatched, and will forever remain that way. 

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

The supremely talented and gifted Kelly Clarkson mesmerized with a breathtaking cover of a timeless and beloved tune, “Over the Rainbow.”

Many people want to be singers, playing to thousands of adoring fans every night. Just look at all the people who try out for shows like American Idol, America’s Got Talent and The Voice. Everyone wants to believe they have what it takes to succeed in a highly competitive field like entertainment.

However, sadly, that’s not the case at all. While many people may and do try out for those shows, the judges are the ones who have to crush those dreams as they gently let them down, telling them thanks but no thanks. 

Kelly Clarkson was one of those people who tried out for those programs and most certainly has what it takes. She is the original American Idol. Since winning the first season of the popular singing competition show, she has become a household name due to her stunning voice. She has the ability and range to hit notes most other singers cannot. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Kelly turned in a stunning performance of “Over the Rainbow.” It’s a stripped-down, jazzy version. The focus is solely on Kelly’s vocal performance, as it should be. 

“Someday, I’ll wish upon a star

Wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

High above the chimney tops, that’s where”

Because of her voice, Kelly can nail classic, beloved songs that others would not even think of trying. There is likely little that Kelly cannot sing or cover and make sound as good as and even better than the original. 

Her version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” hits all the right notes, making it worth listening to repeatedly. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

The incredibly talented group of musicians, The Petersens, turned in a toe-tapping performance of an original bluegrass tune, “Wrong Side of Tomorrow.”

Who doesn’t want to do or be better tomorrow than they are today? Everybody alive wants to wake up in a better position, whatever that may look like, tomorrow than they did the previous day. But there is a big difference between wanting something and doing something. 

Anyone can dream about achieving or being something. However, making a dream a reality takes time, effort and work. Sadly, most people who are on the path to making their dreams a reality become too easily discouraged. One little bump in the road is enough to derail most individuals. 

But then there are other times, even when we genuinely want to and work toward changing our ways, when we continually fail. We may ask ourselves the following questions: At what point will I actually change my ways and get my life on the right track? 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the Petersens sing an incredibly catchy tune about this very situation. “Wrong Side of Tomorrow” is about a man who desperately wants to change his ways but, despite his desires, knows that he will not. At what point will the man change his direction? The lyrics ask how far he must fall before he does something about his life course.

The lyrics to “Wrong Side of Tomorrow” are somewhat like what Paul wrote to the Romans in Romans chapter 7, the section where he writes about doing what he does not want to do. Paul wanted to change his ways and hated what he was doing, but he continued doing it.

Human beings are fallen creatures who cannot change themselves. We can change and turn away from our old ways only because of God’s love, mercy, grace and forgiveness.

Romans 7:15 “And I have no clear knowledge of what I am doing, for that which I have a mind to do, I do not, but what I have hate for, that I do.”

A young woman turned in an epic, fantastic cover performance of the beloved praise and worship tune “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” on American Idol.

Life, as wonderful as it can be, is a series of unknown events. No person can be entirely sure what will happen from one moment to the next. Those who say they know exactly what will happen from day to day are either liars, crazy or probably both. 

Everything in life can be changed without a moment’s notice. Your world can be turned upside down, leaving you feeling alone, distraught and trying to make sense of your new reality. A loved one could be here one second and gone the next. 

However, no matter what happens, when we rely upon God’s guidance, direction and protection, we can rest assured that He is in control. It may not seem like it at the time, but God has a plan and will never let us go. We may venture into unknown waters and circumstances, but God stands beside us through it all. 

Abi Carter, a young woman who has made it into the top 24 on the latest season of American Idol, performed Hillsong UNITED’s hit “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” – a song about experiencing the unknown and having to rely upon God during the instances. 

“And I will call upon Your name

And keep my eyes above the waves

When oceans rise

My soul will rest in Your embrace”

The audience responded with a well-deserved round of applause to Abi’s emotional and moving performance about trusting in God during times of trouble and uncertainty. It’s unclear how far Abi will go in the competition, but with her latest performance, she was able to share a wonderful message of faith in and reliance upon God with a massive audience.

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

The legendary Dolly Parton has given a dazzling cover performance of the late Tom Petty’s song “Southern Accents.”

Dolly may be in her late 70s, but the “Jolene” singer has not shown any signs of slowing down. Instead, she has stated that she has no plans to retire and will continue performing for as long as possible. And if you’re lucky enough to find something you love doing, why not keep doing it for as long as possible?

Age seems to be nothing but a number to Dolly, as she still sounds as good as ever. She continues to perform and release new music and videos to accompany those tunes, including one for her cover of “Southern Accents.” 

The official video for her cover of Tom Petty’s “Southern Accents” was posted on YouTube. While Dolly may not have written or performed the song initially, the song’s title and lyrics sound like something that she would do, given that she is a Southern girl. 

“There’s a southern accent where I come from

The young’uns call it country

The Yankees call it dumb

I got my own way of talkin’”

In the video, Dolly sits and sings at a piano, picks up several items scattered throughout a house, and looks longingly at them. As Dolly goes through the items, various clips of the song’s original writer, Tom Petty, are played. 

Also, several of the items that Dolly picks up and others that the camera catches are related to the late Tom Petty. She looks at and feels a guitar, and there is a quick shot of a Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers record.

It’s clear that Dolly’s cover of “Southern Accents” is a tribute to Tom, remembering his life and his contribution to music. 

Once again, as she often does, Dolly knocks this song out of the park. Her voice sounds great and does not sound like it’s coming from a woman in her 70s. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

What an exquisite children’s choir!

In this YouTube video, we listen to the PCA Honor Choir’s ‘Ride On, King Jesus’ performance. The choir is from Prestonwood Christian Academy, located in Plano, TX. The mission of their vocal program is to “expose every child to multiple aspects of music, to enrich the PCA Community with a healthy and vibrant artistic culture, and to glorify God as we strive for excellence in the development of the musical gifts He has given.”

The choir, composed of around 70 kids, gives a beautiful performance of this African American spiritual. It was arranged by Joe Cox at the ACSI Choir Festival in February of 2024. 

‘Ride On, King Jesus’ was composed by Hezekiah Brinson, Jr in 1990. The lyrics begin with:

“Ride on King Jesus,

No man can-a hinder me.

Ride on King Jesus,

No man can-a hinder me.”

This spiritual song is ideal for a choir’s performance, as seen in this video. The music flows together phenomenally.  

The song is about being with Jesus, going to heaven, and how no man can hinder you if you are with him. Such an important topic to consider today when we have so many distractions. Keeping your eyes on Jesus is a must. 

Songs such as these that talk about Jesus and who he is to us are important and have been around for a long time. They remind us of what is important in life and where our focus should be. Songs can translate such meaning and importance, and the PCA Honor Choir does an excellent job of doing so. 

“Fear you not; for I am with you: be not dismayed; for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.” - Isaiah 41:10

The legendary Dick Van Dyke had a sweet and heartwarming response after watching others perform a “Mary Poppins” dance routine.

There are only a couple of entertainers who are thoroughly beloved by basically everyone. Betty White, John Wayne, Michael Landon, James Stewart, Loretta Lynn and Fred Rogers all belong in that exclusive category. However, sadly, all of those mentioned have since passed away. But the work they left behind is still enjoyed by legions of fans.

The only people in entertainment who garner that level of universal love and admiration who are still alive are Carol Burnett and Dick Van Dyke. Despite being in their 90s, both remain fairly active, popping up on television from time to time.

Much like them, their work is also cherished and beloved. Who doesn’t love The Carol Burnett Show and The Dick Van Dyke Show? You’d have to work hard to find someone who does not enjoy one of those programs.

In addition to his legendary television sitcom, Dick has other notable works. He has appeared in several iconic and beloved films. The musicals “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and “Mary Poppins” immediately come to mind.

In a clip posted on YouTube from a program celebrating Dick’s marvelous and legendary career, entertaining the masses with his charm, wit and boatload of talent, he was treated to a dance routine from “Mary Poppins.” The dancers recreated the rooftop dance routine as Dick looked on with joy and glee. He was clearly tickled to death to watch the performers recreate the number from the 1964 film.

Following their performance, Dick praised the dancers and said it reminded him of how much he enjoyed making the film.

“Everything, right on the money,” he said. “It’s just so exciting to see it. It reminds me of what a good time I had. I’m so blessed by this evening.”

Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always: again, I will say, rejoice.”

What a compelling performance by popular street performer and YouTube personality Allie Sherlock! 

Allie is known for her amazing covers of popular songs performed on the street in Dublin and shared worldwide on YouTube. Allie is only 18 years old but has a powerful singing voice and can engage the audience watching her on the street.

This particular song, ‘Proud Mary,’ is upbeat and catchy. It has become quite a popular song; most people recognize it when they hear it. 

‘Proud Mary’ is a song by the band Creedence Clearwater Revival and was first released as a single in January of 1969. Ike and Tina Turner then released their own version in 1971, for which they won a Grammy in 1972. 

Guitarist John Fogerty wrote the song in just two days after being discharged from the National Guard. 

There is no doubt that the crowd watching Allie is enjoying her music. They are standing around watching intently, smiling, and taking photos and videos. She really can stop traffic with her musical abilities.

“Big wheel keep on turnin'

Ooh, the Proud Mary keep on burnin'

And we're rollin' (rollin'), rollin', yeah (rollin')

Rollin' on the river (rollin' on the river)” 

The chorus to ‘Proud Mary’ gets in your head, and you can’t help but want to sing it out loud. During Allie’s performance, she engages the crowd to sing with her. “I want everybody to help me out. It’s really easy, just one word…rollin’,” she tells everyone watching. She starts to sing, and the crowd does their part, responding with “rollin’.” 

Allie not only sings the song but also plays the guitar at the same time. She is focused and animated, which makes for such a beautiful performance of the popular song. 

“Sing to him, sing psalms to him: talk you of all his wondrous works.” - Psalms 105:2 

Caleb and Kelsey, a musically gifted Christian couple, have turned in a dazzling and captivating cover of the beloved praise and worship tune “Shout to the Lord.”

Life is often unbearable and overwhelming. Situations and circumstances can come seemingly out of nowhere to change and shatter our entire world. These horrible, life-altering moments do not discriminate against who they touch and impact. It can happen to anyone at any moment.

Now, try to navigate those trying, painful periods without God walking by your side. Those experiences can push us to our limit with Him, but handling them without relying on His guidance, protection and love would be nearly impossible. 

The Bible states that God will never leave or forsake us. Instead, He remains by our side, going through those dark valleys with us. In those times, He offers His love, rest and protection from the storm. In a clip posted on YouTube, Caleb and Kelsey perform “Shout to the Lord,” a tune about His magnificent and wonderful love, and our need and desire to show Him praise and reverence.

“Shout to the Lord

All the earth let us sing

Power and majesty to the King

Mountain bow down, and the seas will roar”

Caleb and Kelsey are gifted singers who consistently use their God-given abilities to bring praise, glory and honor to His name. They do so again with their cover of “Shout to the Lord.” Their beautiful tones and harmonies make this a cover to be listened to repeatedly.

However, the song’s wonderful message and beautifully written lyrics only exceed the outstanding vocal performances. We would all be lost without the Lord’s comfort, guidance, faithfulness and love. Because of Him and His mercy and grace, we have been forgiven and made a child of the one true King!

Hebrews 13:15 “Let us then make offerings of praise to God at all times through Him, that is to say, the fruit of lips giving witness to his name.”

A young woman turned in an absolutely soul-stirring and moving performance of the beloved song “Goodness of God.”

Life is an experience that can often overwhelm. Many of life’s situations would have even the most level-headed and well-adjusted person crying out for help and guidance. Going through this life alone, without any assistance, is a near impossibility. 

Circumstances can leave people feeling like they are carrying the world's weight on their shoulders. Those are burdens that no one can and should attempt to handle themselves. Luckily, there is one who tells us to cast our worries, burdens and cares upon Him. 

Without God’s constant love, mercy and grace, no one would have a chance, and all would be lost. Or they would find themselves worn down and overburdened, weighed down without God’s assistance. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the young and talented Claire Crosby and the entire Crosby family perform a tune about God’s unfailing love, mercy and grace. The beautifully written lyrics of “Goodness of God” remind us about the powerful, mighty and faithful God we serve. 

“’Cause all my life, You have been faithful

And all my life, You have been so, so good

With every breath that I am able

Oh, I will sing of the good of God”

In life, some situations will pull, stretch and test your faith. There will be instances when you might question God’s plan or even if He’s still in control and at work. But we can all rest assured that He is still there during whatever we’re dealing with or going through. God is always loving and faithful, working in situations even when He appears absent. As the Bible tells us, God works for the good of those who love Him. We can all hold onto that promise during life’s trials and tribulations.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is true, who will give you strength, and keep you safe from evil.”

This beautiful Celtic song will bring you to tears and have you missing your own hometown. 

This YouTube video is a clip of Celtic Thunder performing ‘Song For the Mira.’ This performance took place in Kansas City in 2011. 

Celtic Thunder is a group of men from Ireland and Scotland ages 21-42 who feature songs that celebrate a common Celtic heritage. The first ever Celtic Thunder show occurred in Dublin, Ireland, in 2007, with the first CD released in 2008. 

As we can see with this performance, the men can create some magical music together with their amazing sets. As the men perform, we see an outline of a ship. It is almost as if they are singing on a ship or a deck near a ship. They also have a younger boy singing with them for this performance. 

The song they perform, ‘Song For the Mira,’ was written in 1973 by Allister MacGillivray. The lyrics talk about missing and longing for the Mira River region of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

“Out on the Mira on warm afternoons

Old men go fishin' with black line and spoons

And if they catch nothin', they've never complain

I wish I was with them again”

The lyrics talk about how wonderful and magical a place it is and how they hope to be back there again soon. When listening to the song, even if you have never been to the area, you can picture what a place like the Mira is like. The song may also remind you of times when you have missed your own home and yearn to be able to return to it someday. 

The song has been covered more than 300 times and gained popularity when Anne Murray released it in 1982. 

“A man's heart devises his way: but the LORD directs his steps.” - Proverbs 16:9

Brothers of Heart gives a magical performance of ‘Seven Bridges Road’ in this YouTube video from Gaither Music TV. It was filmed live at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN and is the official video for the song. 

Brothers of Heart is comprised of four men, Jimmy Fortune, Bradley Walker, Mike Rogers, and Ben Isaacs. Jimmy is a country music singer from Virginia who sang tenor for the Statler Brothers for 21 years. Bradley is a bluegrass and country music singer and songwriter from Alabama who is the youngest of the group at 46. Mike is a multi-instrumentalist born and raised in South Carolina. Ben Issacs is the bass player and vocalist for the Issacs and is from Tennessee. 

Brothers of Heart has been dubbed the “Country, bluegrass, gospel dream team” by Cowboys and Indians Magazine. 

Together they create a lovely bluegrass melody with their voices and instruments, including the guitar. It will make you want to get up and dance yourself. 

The song they are singing, ‘Seven Bridges Road’ begins with:

“There are stars in the southern sky

Southward as you go

There is moonlight and moss in the trees

Down the seven bridges road”

The song was written by Steve Young and was recorded in 1969. It is an ode to Woodley Road, which is a rural two-lane road in Alabama. The Eagles recorded the song in 1980, and many people are familiar with this version of the song. 

Brothers of Heart received a ton of encouraging comments on this video. One commenter says, “This music is real genuine, and we do not have enough of it. Thank you gentlemen you’re the best” and another, “What a nice robust sound.Those voices are really moving some air. A very rich sound.” 

“My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise.” - Psalms 57:7 

Two incredibly talented singers on The Voice combined their immense musical gifts for a mesmerizing and dazzling duet of Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend.”

Friends are essential and invaluable people. They can be counted on when life becomes overwhelming and unbearable. They will be a shoulder to cry on and a hand offering to pick us up when we stumble and fall.

One cannot have too many friends. That is simply an impossible thing to do. Someone can always have more friends or, at the very least, acquaintances. Anyone with a close friend will agree that they add so much to life. The more friends you have, the better, more prosperous and fuller life you’ll lead. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Mafe and Rivers Grayson, from Team Legend, sing their hearts out, battling to remain on the show. Despite the competitive nature of the show, Mafe and Rivers work well together, blending their voices to create a wonderful duet as they sing Carole King’s classic song about friendship.

“Winter, spring, summer or fall

All you have to do is call

And I’ll be there

You’ve got a friend”

From the moment that they opened their mouths, John Legend, their coach, was won over and verbally expressed his delight with their duet.

“Beautiful,” John commented as Rivers sang the opening lyrics.

“Yes, Mafe,” he said when she started singing the tune’s opening verse.

Both singers turned in a terrific vocal performance, winning praise from all four judges. However, when it came to decision time, John declared Mafe the winner of that particular challenge.

While not the most upbeat or energetic track in the world, Carole's song is still beautifully written. The lyrics perfectly describe a dear friend and Christ, whom we can call upon at any time or place, and He will hear and answer our prayers every time. He will also stick closer than any friend, never leaving our side, especially during troubling and painful situations. 

Proverbs 17:17 “A friend is loving at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”

A trio of supremely talented vocalists, The Texas Tenors, turned in a mesmerizing and fantastic performance, singing “Unchained Melody” on Larry’s Country Diner.

There are some tunes, no matter how many times you have heard them, that will never become old and tiring. You may have listened to a particular song several thousand times, but it’s just as enjoyable each time as if you’re hearing it for the first time. 

There are only a few, very limited number of songs that are such beloved classics. “Amazing Grace” most definitely belongs in that category. No one will ever get sick of hearing those beautiful lyrics about being lost and blind but finding and experiencing God’s extraordinary, life-changing grace.

Another timeless track is The Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody.” It’s a tune that is instantly recognizable. From the song’s opening notes, everyone within earshot will know what song has just started playing. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the three guys who make up the group, The Texas Tenors, gave a lovely performance of the Righteous Brothers’ hit from 1965. 

“I’ve hungered for your touch

A long, lonely time

And time goes by so slowly

And time can do so much”

The three men blend their voices, creating a stunning harmony. Their vocal performance deserves to be heard several times.

Before the clip ends, the guys have summoned a woman in a long, brightly colored dress and a bonnet to them. Each serenades her as the audience looks at the scene before them.

Finally, the audience responds to the awe-inspiring and masterful vocal performance with hearty and well-deserved applause. 

“Unchained Melody” is a song that has been covered thousands of times by hundreds of artists since its release nearly sixty years ago. The tune will likely continue to be covered and played for years.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Two young female contestants on The Voice nailed a dazzling duet, singing Stevie Nicks’ classic “Edge of Seventeen.”

Fleetwood Mac is one of the all-time classic bands. The group has been around for decades and has turned out dozens of beloved tunes during their run. While the band comprises several members, lead singer Stevie Nicks is the one person most closely associated with the group.

Her voice is beautiful, unique and unmistakable. Anytime you hear Stevie Nicks singing, you immediately know you’re hearing a Fleetwood Mac tune or one of her solo songs. There is no confusing her sound with anyone else. That’s likely a big reason she has been so incredibly successful.

In a clip posted on YouTube, two women – Jackie Romeo and Olivia Rubini – turned in an outstanding and awe-inspiring duet of Stevie’s beloved “Edge of Seventeen.” 

“Just the white-winged dove

Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing

Ooh, ooh, ooh

Just like the white-winged dove”

Both young women gave fantastic vocal performances, making their cover of Stevie Nicks’ timeless tune appear effortless. The studio audience was into it basically from the first notes. 

However, those in the audience weren’t the only people who enjoyed Jackie and Olivia’s performance. All of the judges were overly complimentary, showering both women with kind words. 

The two women were performing as part of the battle rounds on The Voice. Both were singing for the right to remain on the program. Ultimately, their coach, John Legend, selected one of the women as the winner. 

But there was a significant twist at the end of the clip that likely no one saw coming. Dan + Shay used a steal in order to grab and add the young women who lost the battle to their team.

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord:”

Legendary singer-songwriter Willie Nelson was joined on stage by Kermit the Frog for a special moment as the two sang a duet to “Rainbow Connection.”

Many dream of being a musician, playing on stage in front of thousands of adoring fans every night. For that reason, shows like American Idol, The Voice and America’s Got Talent never struggle to find people hoping to make it on the show. Sadly, only a few are ever able to achieve their musical dream.

The entertainment field is a highly competitive field, with many people itching to break in, hoping for a chance to show their stuff. Some people have what it takes to make music a career, and others do not. 

One person who has been thrilling and entertaining audiences for decades is the legendary Willie Nelson. Even in his 90s, Willie continues to turn out music and play his beloved tunes for his adoring fans. 

Throughout his illustrious career, Willie has sung with some talented and iconic musicians. He has sung with Merle Haggard, Bob Dylan, Toby Keith, Sheryl Crow and Dolly Parton. That is an all-star list of musicians!

Now, Willie can add another name to his list of famous and talented collaborators: Kermit the Frog. 

In a clip posted on social media, Willie was joined on stage by the popular green Muppet, and they sang “Rainbow Connection.”

The crowd obviously loved the unique and sweet moment between the two. Who wouldn’t enjoy something like that? Duets like that don’t happen very often.

Even seeing the two guys holding and manipulating the Kermit the Frog figure doesn’t detract from the duet performance. 

Thankfully, it was Kermit and not Miss Piggy. Even though she tries, everyone knows that Miss Piggy is musically challenged and unable to carry a note in a bucket. 

Psalm 95:1 “O come, let us make songs to the Lord; sending up glad voices to the Rock of our salvation.”