Evan James Fights For a Spot In ‘The Voice’ Live Shows With Gritty Chris Stapleton Cover

Evan James has been bringing a fresh dose of country-rock energy to Team Adam on The Voice throughout Season 30. This week, in an effort to prove why he deserves a spot in the Live Shows, Evan stepped up with a high-energy take on Chris Stapleton’s “Midnight Train to Memphis.”

From the opening notes, James set the tone with the song’s pounding rhythm, his gritty vocals and his signature edge. Moving confidently across the stage, he had the crowd on its feet and dancing along as he delivered a performance that blended country grit with a soulful, rock-inspired sound. The Michigan native made the Stapleton hit his own, showing off both his vocal power and his abilities as a performer.

Especially being the sole country artist on Adam Levine’s team, James had to step up to the plate, and it’s safe to say he gave it his all.

Kelly Clarkson was first to share her thoughts, making sure to point out how impressed she was with his ability to effortlessly tackle a song by one of the greatest vocalists in country music at just 22 years old.

“I love your vibe. Just for 22 years old, rocking that Chris Stapleton song. That’s incredible. I love your vocal and I love the ending. It really means that you’re really wanting to fight for it. Well done.”

Evan’s own coach also praised him and revealed he is “still discovering things” about the hopeful that are “brand new,” such as the rasp in his voice.

“I loved your energy. I love that song. I love the way you sang it. So just excellent work today, brother. Good job.”

Levine later added that Evan “exploded” in this performance during Cut Week. He also stated that he was “very happy” to have a country artist on his team, making his decision that much more difficult.

This week, The Voice introduced Cut Week for the very first time. In this round, each coach had to decide which two artists from their team would be sent directly to the Live Shows while the five remaining artists performed for one last spot, which was also selected by their respective coaches.  

Adam Levine chose to automatically advance Lexi Stephens and Connor Closs from his team and gave the final spot to Dakota Cohen, following his performance of Fuel’s “Hemorrhage (In My Hands).”

Since Evan James was not chosen to move forward and represent Team Adam in the Live Shows, he could be going home next week. However, he has one final chance to be saved.

America had the chance to vote for the one additional artist they want to make the Live Top 13. This result will be revealed during a brand-new episode of The Voice airing Monday, November 9 at 9/8c on NBC and Peacock.