Yes, Morgan Wallen competed on The Voice in 2014, and a new contestant singing one of his biggest hits has put that story back in the spotlight.
On the Season 30 Blind Auditions that aired Oct. 6, Evan James, 22, of Highland, Michigan, performed Wallen's "Wasted on You." Kelly Clarkson, Riley Green, and Adam Levine all turned their chairs at once, according to NBC and Country Now. Clarkson praised him for making such a popular song his own. James then surprised the room by choosing Team Adam. NBC says his dream is to follow in Wallen's footsteps, and it described the choice as a "leap of faith."
Wallen auditioned on Season 6 in 2014 with Howie Day's "Collide" and joined Team Usher. He later landed on Team Adam Levine, the same coach James just picked. He was eliminated in the Playoffs, before the live shows. Wallen has said in the past that he is thankful for how it turned out.
Wallen has recorded faith-themed songs such as "Don't Think Jesus," and in 2022 he joined Larry Fleet onstage for a live duet of Fleet's "Where I Find God." For young singers, the story is a reminder that a setback on a stage can become the start of a bigger calling.
James now moves on to the Battle Rounds with Team Adam.
