By Michelle Price
Special to the UCBJ
COOKEVILLE – Cookeville friends and fans gathered around Cookeville musician Jake Hoot Monday night erupted into applause as Kelly Clarkson chose Hoot to advance to the Voice Knockout Rounds.
Red Silo hosted the watch party to cheer Hoot on as he competed in his Voice Battle Round against Steve Knill. The duo performed Willie Nelson’s classic “Always on My Mind” to the delight of all four judges.
“Jake has the most awesome perfect amount of nasal to be a good country singer,” said coach Blake Shelton. “It adds character and makes it authentic.”
Coach John Legend said “Jake, your tone just sounded perfect for this, like you owned the song, like it was written for you to sing it. It just felt right.”
“I was blown away by both of you,” said coach Gwen Stefani. “Jake, your voice is so strong, it resonates.”
The final decision came down to Clarkson, who reminisced that she grew up hearing the song at 6 a.m. every morning.
“There are certain times that are undeniable. When Jake walks out on stage, it’s undeniable,” said Clarkson, explaining why she chose Hoot. “I am a sucker for straight-up old school country, and that’s what Jake is.”
Hoot goes back to Los Angeles next week to compete in the knockouts. The journey from there is undetermined as yet but the UCBJ will post regular updates on the journey for this Cookeville musician.
