SIDNEY, Neb. - Jaelen Johnston’s deep country vocals and heartfelt delivery earned him a victory on The Voice Monday night in his Battle Round matchup against Hailey Wright.

The two, both members of Team Kelsea Ballerini, delivered a moving duet of Brooks & Dunn’s “Neon Moon” in the final performance of the night.

Before taking the stage, Johnston and Wright were coached by Ballerini and country superstars Little Big Town. LBT praised Johnston’s low register, comparing him to Trace Adkins and Josh Turner. 

The other coaches were equally impressed. Adam Levine called Jaelen's voice “powerful and masculine,” while Michael Bublé described the duet as “absolutely beautiful and romantic.” John Legend noted the richness and texture in Johnston’s voice, saying he made the song feel deeply personal. Ballerini described him as having a “lightning in a bottle” voice that captivates the audience as soon as he sings.

Ultimately, Ballerini named Johnston the winner of the battle, keeping him on her team as he advances to the Knockout Rounds, where he will compete against another contestant for a chance to move on to the live shows. Ballerini used her one save to keep Wright in the competition, meaning both singers remain in the running.

Johnston, who was born and raised in Kansas, told the viewing audience his country roots were shaped by his mother and grandmother. He said he has been a longtime fan of The Voice, telling his family as a child that he would one day sing on the show.

Fans in Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming will get a chance to see him perform live when he headlines Downtown Sounds in Sidney on Friday, July 18.

 
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