When you think of The Voice, you probably picture soaring vocals, dramatic chair turns, and instant fame. Yet, lurking behind those glittering moments are the 10 biggest fails that turned hopeful auditions into unforgettable learning experiences. From missed notes to puzzling stage choices, each of these moments reminds us that even the most talented singers can have an off‑day. Let’s explore the mishaps that made the judges gasp, the audience cringe, and the contestants vow to come back stronger.
10 Biggest Fails Unveiled
10. Lachlan Geraghty: “Lay Me Down” By Sam Smith
Competing on the Australian edition, Lachlan Geraghty set his sights on Boy George as his ideal mentor, banking on the fact that many listeners heard a Sam Smith‑style timbre in his voice. He chose the soulful ballad “Lay Me Down,” delivering it at a measured tempo that let his powerful belt shine through, prompting the judges to murmur “he’s good” throughout his performance.
Unfortunately, Boy George was the only coach with an open slot on his team, which meant no other judge could hit their button even if they wanted to. The studio audience rallied, urging Boy George to press his button, but he held firm, merely waving a casual hello as the final note faded. One of the judges even joked that “George is on all of our nerves,” underscoring the tension.
Lachlan, a red‑haired talent from Brisbane, received pointed feedback that his sound was too reminiscent of Sam Smith. Boy George encouraged him to embrace his own authenticity rather than imitate another artist, suggesting a more personal approach could set him apart.
Even though no chair turned, the panel urged him to return the following season, assuring him that three coaches were eager to have him on their teams. It was a classic case of a great voice meeting a picky coach, leaving viewers both frustrated and hopeful for his comeback.
9. Tiana Goss: “Say It Right” By Nelly Furtado
In the 2022 blind auditions, Tiana Goss tackled Nelly Furtado’s “Say It Right,” aiming to showcase her vocal beauty. However, as the chorus approached, her pitch began to wobble, and she struggled to maintain control, resulting in a performance that fell short of the judges’ expectations.
Blake Shelton appeared puzzled by the song choice, while the other coaches offered supportive commentary. They suggested that a more staccato delivery could highlight the pop nuances of her range, hoping to guide her toward a stronger stylistic fit.
Undeterred by the initial setback, Tiana returned in season 23 with renewed determination, eager to prove that she could turn this early stumble into a triumphant comeback.
8. Kenza Blanka: “Papaoutai” By Stromae
Kenza Blanka stepped onto the stage with Stromae’s infectious hit “Papaoutai,” instantly displaying a uniquely powerful voice that demanded attention. The judges were quick to note her youthful tone, recognizing the fresh energy she brought to the performance.
The audience erupted in dance and applause as Kenza’s vibrant stage presence lit up the room. While the coaches leaned in, ready to press their buttons, Kenza’s occasional spontaneous screams and squeaks seemed to give them pause, creating a moment of hesitation.
Despite the near‑miss, her electrifying delivery left a lasting impression, proving that even a few off‑beat vocal quirks couldn’t mask her undeniable talent and captivating charisma.
7. Alyssa Witrado: “Don’t Speak” By No Doubt
At 19, Alyssa Witrado from Fresno chose No Doubt’s iconic “Don’t Speak” for her blind audition, hoping to catch the eye of coach Gwen Stefani. The opening notes earned Gwen’s attention, prompting her to press her button and signal early interest.However, as the chorus arrived, Alyssa’s voice began to wobble, and an erratic, almost random body shake disrupted the performance’s flow. Her pitch drifted, and the vocal lines ran together, creating a less polished rendition than expected.
Despite these hiccups, the judges saw potential, and Alyssa secured a spot on Gwen’s team. Blake Shelton even praised her bold song choice, calling it “exactly that,” suggesting that with the right guidance, she could refine her delivery.
6. Gemma Nha: “Nessun Dorma” By Luciano Pavarotti
Gemma Nha delivered a breathtaking rendition of “Nessun Dorma,” filling the Australian stage with a voice that was both powerful and emotionally resonant. Her pitch was immaculate, hitting each note with precision, while her expressive eyes added depth to the performance.
Multiple coaches leaned forward, ready to turn their chairs, but all their teams were already full—except for Boy George, who held the final slot. Yet, Boy George chose not to press his button, sparking a chorus of pleas from the other judges urging him to reconsider.
The decision left many viewers baffled, speculating that stylistic differences might have influenced the outcome. Nonetheless, Gemma’s unforgettable delivery remains a testament to her extraordinary vocal talent and stage presence.
5. Jake Daulby: “Way Down We Go” By Kaleo
Jake Daulby’s take on Kaleo’s “Way Down We Go” captured the audience’s attention with a rich, hearty timbre that sent shivers down the spine. His gravelly texture added a distinctive flavor that set him apart from typical audition fare.
Although Jake experienced occasional pitch challenges, a couple of judges hovered on the brink of turning their chairs, recognizing the raw, emotive power he brought to the song. His charismatic smile at the close hinted at confidence in his connection with the crowd.
This performance underscored his vocal strengths and hinted at a promising future, perhaps even catching the eye of Blake Shelton if the audition had taken place in the U.S.
4. Hanna Rohkohl: “Titanium” By David Guetta ft. Sia
Hanna Rohkohl approached “Titanium” with a gentle, initially soft vocal that gradually revealed a unique solo quality. While her opening was slightly subdued for the judges’ taste, she quickly demonstrated an ability to convey intimacy and nuance.
The panel found themselves divided: some praised her beautiful tone, while others questioned whether she possessed enough power to dominate the larger stage. Minor moments of nasality emerged in the chorus, and a brief loss of control was noted during the vocal turns.
Despite these critiques, Hanna’s musicality shone through, creating an intimate atmosphere that highlighted her authenticity and potential to grow into a more commanding performer.
3. Ole Aleksander Wagenius: “Don’t Stop Believin’” By Journey
Ole Aleksander Wagenius commanded the stage with a bold rendition of Journey’s classic “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Though his opening suffered a slight pacing hiccup, his projection and presence quickly captured attention.
Sporting an epic soul patch and a dramatic hand‑fling that resembled an emergency brake pull, Ole’s visual flair matched his vocal delivery. His hair, slicked to one side by an imagined gust, added to his theatrical persona.
While the coaches leaned in, they ultimately felt a disconnect, noting occasional pitchiness on high notes and a lack of a distinctive vocal style. Still, Ole’s electrifying stage energy ensured his audition remained memorable.
2. Kateřina Kolčavová: “Believer” By Imagine Dragons
Kateřina Kolčavová stormed the Czecho‑Slovak stage with an explosive take on “Believer.” Backed solely by drums, her commanding vocals filled the arena, prompting two judges to dance along with fervor.
She re‑imagined the song’s spacing, injecting fresh rhythm while her accent added an edgy flavor to the lyrics. As she progressed, a gritty, gravelly timbre emerged, resonating deeply with the audience, leading many to claim she outshone the judges themselves.
1. Luna Envy: “My Immortal” By Evanescence
Luna Envy, a 21‑year‑old from Melbourne, opened her audition with a delicate, whisper‑soft take on Evanescence’s “My Immortal.” Though her ethereal tone suited a haunting Halloween vibe, pitch inconsistencies plagued the performance throughout.
The judges were drawn to her distinctive style and saw a spark of stardom, despite the technical flaws. Luna’s eyebrows—artfully shaped and expressive—became a surprising focal point, prompting the judges to gather for a closer look.
Concluding with a graceful curtsey, Luna displayed poise and gratitude, leaving the audience eager to see how she might refine her haunting aesthetic in future rounds.