Emotions Run High During the Knockouts on Season 28 of The Voice
The first episode of the Knockouts in Season 28 of The Voice had viewers on the edge of their seats, witnessing performances that transcended mere entertainment to touch the heart. Among these, Team Reba artist Aubrey Nicole’s rendition of Martina McBride’s “I’m Gonna Love You Through It” stood out, bringing potent emotions to the forefront.
Aubrey chose this poignant song, which centers on supporting a loved one through a serious illness, particularly cancer. She dedicated her performance to her father, who battled cancer just as she was transitioning to college. Thankfully, her father is now in remission, but the emotional weight of her story resonated with everyone watching, especially the coaches.
A Touching Coach Reaction: Snoop Dogg
As Coach Snoop Dogg took in Aubrey’s heartfelt performance, he expressed his admiration, even though he was unfamiliar with her background or the song itself. “You did a great job,” he said, acknowledging the undeniable emotional impact of her singing. This moment highlighted how art can bridge personal experiences, creating connections even between strangers.
Reba McEntire’s Heartfelt Connection
Reba McEntire, known not only for her remarkable music career but also for her empathy, later shared her own experience with loss to Aubrey just after her performance. “I do know this song. Martina’s — I’ll need it, thank you, Snoop,” she said, humorously accepting a tissue to dab her tears. This light moment quickly turned heartfelt as she revealed her personal connection to the song, celebrating its significance while mourning her loss.
McEntire referenced her stepson, Brandon Blackstock, who tragically lost his battle with melanoma in 2025. Her emotional connection to both the song and Aubrey’s performance added another layer of depth, illustrating how music can evoke shared experiences of struggle and resilience.
The Legacy of Brandon Blackstock
McEntire spoke candidly about her feelings surrounding Brandon’s passing. She conveyed gratitude for the time they had shared, emphasizing how much he meant to her and the joy he brought to those around him. This sentiment rings true for many who have faced similar heartbreak, and her vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience.
She articulated, “That was a real reminder that life goes on, and we sing songs about it so we can remember the ones around us that we love so much.” This powerful assertion encapsulated the shared humanity that music often brings forth, a common thread that connects us all.
Family Connections: Reba and Brandon
To further understand Reba McEntire’s poignant words, it’s essential to explore her family ties to Brandon Blackstock. Reba was married to Brandon’s father, Narvel Blackstock, from 1989 to 2015, and together they share a son, Shelby Blackstock. This family dynamic added another layer to McEntire’s heartfelt expression in the moment, as she recollected fond memories of raising Brandon alongside Narvel.
“My relationship with my stepson Brandon Blackstock was precious. I absolutely love that child,” she shared, reflecting on how Brandon was a part of her life from a very young age. Her memories of his mischievous spirit and the joy he brought to the family highlighted how intricately woven personal stories can be, emphasizing the importance of family and connection.
Behind the Scenes with Snoop Dogg
Reba’s emotional honesty was not just a pivotal moment for her, but also an inspiring instance for Snoop Dogg, who took the time to support her during a raw moment. His nonverbal encouragement—a simple tissue—spoke volumes about the camaraderie among the coaches, as well as the shared emotional landscape that performance can evoke.
The Power of Music in Tough Times
The emotional landscape of the Knockouts on The Voice serves as a reminder of the profound impact music can have during life’s most challenging moments. Aubrey, through her performance, opened up a dialogue about love, loss, and resilience—common themes that resonate universally.
As the season progresses, audiences can look forward to more moments that not only captivate but also remind them of the power of storytelling through music. For those wanting to catch the latest episodes of The Voice, tune in Mondays at 8/7c on NBC, or stream them the next day on Peacock.