Cori Kennedy’s Blind Audition on The Voice Season 28 has quickly become one of the most talked-about performances of the season. The 28-year-old singer from rural Minnesota not only delivered a powerful cover of The Judds’ “Why Not Me,” but also surprised the judges and audience with a charming original song that had everyone on their feet.
Cori Kennedy’s Audition Leaves Judges in Awe
When Kennedy began her audition with The Judds’ classic, she immediately captured the attention of Reba McEntire and Michael Bublé, both of whom turned their chairs. Her heartfelt delivery and powerhouse vocals brought Reba to tears, sparking memories of Tennessee and her own country roots.
But the real surprise came when Kennedy asked if she could sing a song she wrote about the judges themselves. What followed was a witty, heartfelt performance that mentioned each coach — from Snoop Dogg to Niall Horan — with playful lyrics and clever rhymes.
The crowd erupted in laughter, and all four judges — Reba, Bublé, Niall, and Snoop — gave Kennedy a rare standing ovation.
Michael Bublé’s Bold and Hilarious Move
After Kennedy’s performance, Michael Bublé tried his best to win her over, even joking about his chances against country icon Reba. In a playful twist, he rolled up his pants to reveal socks decorated with Reba McEntire’s face, leaving the coaches and audience in stitches.
“These are Reba McEntire socks, baby!” Bublé declared, sparking one of the funniest moments of the night. Snoop Dogg chimed in with his own humor, saying, “That lady right there, I call her Reba Magnet-ire. Anytime someone sings country music, I’m gonna lose.”
Reba McEntire Welcomes Cori Kennedy to Her Team
Although the competition was fierce, the decision wasn’t difficult for Kennedy. Host Carson Daly noted it seemed like a “foregone conclusion,” and he was right — Kennedy chose Reba McEntire as her coach.
Reba praised Kennedy’s tone and emotional storytelling, telling her, “Your voice is wonderful, such power. I’m so thrilled to hear you on this stage.”
Cori Kennedy’s Journey Beyond The Voice
Just before her audition aired, Kennedy revealed on Instagram that she had quit her 9-to-5 job as a commercial furniture dealer to pursue music full-time. She wrote:
“This has been on my heart for a while, and it finally feels like the right time to jump in and see what happens. All the love and support from family and friends has meant the world to me No more desk job — hello Nashville!”
With her move to Nashville and Reba McEntire’s guidance, Kennedy’s future in country music looks incredibly bright. Fans will be watching closely as she heads into the Battle Rounds and Knockouts on The Voice Season 28.
