3 Quick Facts About Conor James: ‘The Voice’ Contestant Whose Aretha Franklin Cover Earned Him a Four Chair Turn

Conor James is officially on The Voice! The series aired the 28-year-old singer’s blind audition during the third episode of the season, and he earned the honor of a four chair turn.

Adam Levine, John Legend, Kelsea Ballerini, and Michael Bublé were all so impressed with James’ cover of Aretha Franklin’s “I Say a Little Prayer” that they eagerly pressed their button to get him on their team.

Before you start rooting for James, read on for three quick facts about the Massachusetts native.

He Does More Than Sing

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After his blind audition, James told the coaches that, in addition to singing, he has experience in musical theater. In fact, he even developed a classically trained voice at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York.

James also writes and produces his own music, plays the keys, and makes social media content.

“This is my whole life,” he proudly told the coaches of music.

While in New York, James waited tables to make a living as he played private parties, both solo and with a five-piece band.

Now based in Los Angeles, James keeps busy by playing gigs and developing his YouTube channel.

His Musical Influences Are Varied

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James, whose older brother is also a singer, counts Green Day and Desmond Dekker as some of his earliest musical influences. During his time living in New York, house, pop, and techno music took hold.

Currently, James considers Elton John, Lady Gaga, Frank Ocean, Billy Joel, and Sade as some of his favorites. He’s even posted covers of Joel’s “Vienna,” Britney Spears’ “Toxic,” and SZA’s “The Weekend.”

He’s Part of Team Adam

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James’ epic blind audition performance on The Voice earned a chair turn from the four coaches, all of whom were more than happy to praise him.

“It really took us on a journey. It was soulful and elegant,” Legend said, before bonding with James over musical theater and noting that he’s currently writing a Broadway show.

“Shameless!” Levine complained.

Bublé called James “adorable” and said being his coach would “just be fun for me.”

Meanwhile, Ballerini gushed that she’s “obsessed” with the singer.

“I quite literally forgot I had a job to do when I was turned around, that’s why I was a little late to the party,” she quipped.

Levine went last, praising James’ “spirit” and “limitless potential.”

“You can win this show,” Levine said. “I want you bad on my team.”

Levine’s pitch worked, as James picked him as his coach.

“Conor is a unicorn,” the Maroon 5 frontman told the cameras after his win. “I think we’ve only scratched the surface of what this kid can do.”

Photo by Christine Bartolucci/NBC