John Holiday Keeps the Spirit of the Season Alive With Soaring Vocals on “The Voice”
This holiday season may be drearier than usual, but one TV tradition remained spirited: NBC’s hit series The Voice, known for its slew of Christmas specials over the years. Coaches crooned “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” in 2014, and Gwen Stefani covered “Felix Navidad” to cap off 2018, yet the most recent season featured a holiday finale spearheaded by the series’ very own contestants. Among the finalists was 35-year-old Houston native John Holiday, who instantly captured audiences with his immense vocal range. Holiday’s closing performances did not shy away from showing off his chops: he belted out Beyoncé’s “Halo,” an original tune entitled “Where Do We Go From Here” and a duet of “Bridge Over Troubled Water" with coach John Legend. Holiday placed fifth in the final episode, but not without a smile and an exit that certified his legacy on the show would remain. Below, Holiday gives readers a glimpse at the much-needed talent and charisma he brought to the competition amid the Christmas season.
Why did you decide to audition for The Voice?
I decided to audition for The Voice because I really wanted to try to step outside of my comfort zone and do something different. I’ve always wanted to be a crossover artist, and I felt that this was the most amazing place to showcase that side of my artistry. In addition, several friends before suggested I audition, and I could never find the time. My schedule happened to be open, and I felt that it was a sign that I should try out for The Voice.
What made you choose your coach, John Legend?
I chose John because I feel as though our lives have several parallels. He grew up playing in church, and I did, too. He’s very close to his family, especially his grandmother, and I’m close to my Bigmama. He plays the piano and sings, and I do, too. I just felt that our paths were aligned, and I admire who he is as an artist and a human being. For the longest time, I’ve dreamed of working with him, and finally doing so has made one of my biggest dreams come true. It has been an amazing journey, and I’m so grateful.
What was your favorite week on the show, and why?
My favorite performance on the show was fan week because I got to show my grandmother, whom I lovingly call Bigmama, all of the love that I could muster up in my performance of Cold Play’s “Fix You.” It was my most vulnerable performance ever. Even my little brother called me and said that he wanted more singing like that.
What was the most challenging part of competing?
The most challenging part of the competition is seeing dear friends go home. Believe it or not, we’re one big family. In fact, we were together for nearly half of the year. So, whenever someone would get sent home, after an elimination round, there were lots of tears rolling down my face.
How did you collaborate with the wardrobe/hair and makeup departments?
I loved the fashion department. I sent them an inspiration board of things that I wear in my personal life, and that was how we went forward with the clothing that I’d wear on the show. Most of the clothing that I wore in the beginning were my own garments. Then, we started getting more creative with my costumes. As with most things, I love to push the envelope, even with my style choices. I can’t find a single outfit that I didn’t love. Many thanks to my stylists, Hachy and Miss Kim Cyre, for their craftsmanship. I also want to thank all of the wardrobe department: Denise, Marissa, Andrea, Rochelle, Chrissy, Nicky, Lita, Kim and Lex!
What was your favorite performance?
My favorite performance was “All By Myself.” I’ve always wanted to sing that song with Celine Dion. The next best thing was me singing it on the show, and I hope she saw it.
What’s something about being on the show that audiences may not know?
They don’t know about all of the behind-the-scenes things we had to do to keep the show going. Because of COVID, we were always testing—every two days. There was a COVID-compliance officer/doctor on site at all times. During the entirety of the show, we were really blessed to not have any issues come up with COVID, and that’s largely due to NBC making sure that we were well taken care of.
What’s the best piece of advice your coach gave you?
To be myself, 100%, without apology. He also told me to lean more into who I am and continue being my authentic self. He’s given me some beautiful advice regarding style as well, things I’ll take with me forever. He always tells me to soar. I will do just that.
What are your future plans?
Currently, I’m planning to release a project in the spring, and I cannot wait to see what takes shape. Already, some pretty amazing collaborations are in the works, and I feel so blessed to finally be coming out with a project that represents the entirety of me as a human being and as a versatile artist.
Follow John on Social Media:
Instagram: @johnholidaylive
Twitter: @johnholidaylive
Facebook: @johnholidaylive
Website: www.johnholiday.com