The Voice Season 17 Finale: Jake Hoot Crowned Winner After Epic Performances & Celebrity Duets
The highly anticipated grand finale of Season 17 of The Voice arrived with a promise of unforgettable performances, emotional goodbyes, and the crowning of a new champion. After weeks of fierce competition, only four exceptional artists remained: Rose Short, known for her powerful, soulful voice; Ricky Duran, the blues-rock sensation; Jake Hoot, the authentic country crooner; and Katie Kadan, with her distinctive, raspy blues delivery. Each finalist, representing their respective coaches, stood on the precipice of achieving their dreams. The stage was set for a spectacular evening filled with star-studded collaborations, heartfelt reunions, and ultimately, the revelation of The Voicewinner.
The night was designed not just as a competition, but as a celebration of music and the incredible talent discovered throughout the season. Before the momentous announcement, audiences were treated to an electrifying lineup of guest artists and dazzling duets between the finalists and some of the biggest names in music. The energy in the studio was palpable, a mix of nervous anticipation for the results and pure joy for the musical spectacle unfolding. Every note, every performance, and every shared moment added to the excitement of this pivotal night in The Voice history.
The Grand Finale Kicks Off with High-Energy Performances
The evening exploded with an upbeat and high-octane performance that immediately set the tone for a night of incredible music. Some of the most memorable male vocalists from Season 17 – Alex Guthrie, Will Breman, Max Boyle, and Shane Q – reunited on stage. Their collective energy was infectious as they delivered a spirited rendition of “Give Me Some Lovin’.” This opening act perfectly showcased the camaraderie and raw talent that defined the season, reminding everyone of the depth of vocal prowess that had graced the stage. It was a joyful reunion, bringing back fan favorites and kicking off the show with an undeniable surge of excitement.
Following this dynamic start, the legendary country trio Lady Antebellum graced the stage. Their performance of their latest hit, “What If I Never Get Over You,” was nothing short of breathtaking. Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley, and Dave Haywood delivered their signature harmonies with emotional depth and precision, captivating the audience with their heartfelt lyrics and impeccable vocal blend. As expected from such seasoned performers, they absolutely commanded the stage, offering a moment of poignant beauty amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the finale. Their performance underscored the high caliber of guest artists featured throughout the evening.
The spectacle continued with a global sensation. The Black Eyed Peas, joined by Latin music superstar J Balvin and the mesmerizing dance group Illuminate, transformed the stage into a vibrant, high-energy production. Their performance of “RITMO” was an explosion of sound, light, and insane choreography. The stage was alive with dancers, intricate movements, and the powerful vocals of the group, creating an unforgettable visual and auditory experience. It was a masterclass in modern stage production, proving that The Voice finale is not just about vocalists, but about complete entertainment.
Unforgettable Celebrity Duets Elevate the Competition
One of the most thrilling aspects of The Voice finale is the opportunity for the finalists to perform alongside their musical idols and global superstars. These duets often become defining moments, allowing the contestants to shine even brighter on the biggest stage. The first of these highly anticipated collaborations featured finalist Katie Kadan, whose powerful, bluesy voice has been a highlight of the season. She teamed up with the incomparable Adam Lambert for a breathtaking rendition of Cher’s iconic hit, “Believe.” Adam, a veteran of singing competitions himself, brought his characteristic flair and incredible vocal range, perfectly complementing Katie’s soulful intensity. Their combined vocal prowess created a truly beautiful and emotionally charged performance, showcasing Katie’s versatility and hinting at the successful career that could very well follow her tonight, much like Adam’s own journey.
Next, it was Rose Short’s turn to share the stage with a legend. The powerhouse vocalist was joined by gospel icon Yolanda Adams for a soul-stirring performance of “Through The Midst Of It All.” This duet was a match made in heaven, as Rose’s incredible vocal control and emotional depth blended seamlessly with Yolanda’s legendary spiritual power. Their voices intertwined in a way that resonated deeply with everyone watching, delivering a truly moving and powerful experience. The performance was not just technically flawless but imbued with an undeniable spiritual energy, leaving an indelible mark on the audience and solidifying Rose’s status as a formidable talent.
The celebration of talent also extended to past contestants. A beautiful reunion saw former season 17 contestants Kat Hammock, Cali Wilson, Gracee Shriver, and Marybeth Byrd return to the stage. Their harmonious performance of “Neon Moon” was absolutely gorgeous, a testament to the enduring talent discovered throughout the season. Their voices blended perfectly, creating a nostalgic and heartwarming moment that reminded viewers of the incredible journey these artists had shared.
Global Superstars and Returning Champions Grace the Stage
The finale continued its star-studded parade with a performance from global pop sensation Dua Lipa. She lit up the stage with her smash hit, “Don’t Start Now.” Dressed in a stunning silver fringe outfit, Dua Lipa exuded confidence and style, delivering a captivating performance filled with dynamic dancing and her signature smooth vocals. Her presence brought a fresh, contemporary pop energy to the evening, showcasing why she is one of the most exciting artists in music today. Her energetic set provided a fantastic segue into more contestant duets.
Soon after, finalist Ricky Duran had the incredible opportunity to perform with one of his musical idols, the Grammy-winning blues-rock guitarist Gary Clark Jr. The duo absolutely rocked the stage with a powerful rendition of “Pearl Cadillac.” Both artists showcased their exceptional guitar skills and raw, soulful vocals, creating a blistering performance that resonated with authentic blues and rock energy. It was a dream come true for Ricky, and their synergy on stage was undeniable, highlighting his ability to hold his own alongside a musical giant.
Adding a touch of festive cheer, last season’s winner, Maelyn Jarmon, returned to The Voice stage. Her performance of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” was a beautiful reminder of her pure, crystalline voice that won her the title. Maelyn’s elegant delivery and heartwarming stage presence effortlessly ushered in the holiday spirit, leaving no doubt as to why she was crowned the winner in her season. Her return was a poignant moment, symbolizing the journey and success awaiting the next champion.
Finally, it was time for country finalist Jake Hoot to deliver his highly anticipated duet. He teamed up with the iconic country group Little Big Town for a perfect collaboration on the band’s hit, “Over Drinking.” Jake’s genuine country voice blended seamlessly with Little Big Town’s renowned harmonies, creating a truly authentic and crowd-pleasing performance. It was a match made in country music heaven, showcasing Jake’s natural talent and his comfort in sharing the stage with legends, further solidifying his appeal to country fans nationwide.
More Stellar Performances and Emotional Goodbyes
The night’s impressive lineup of celebrity guests continued with the magnificent Jennifer Hudson. A former coach on The Voice and an EGOT winner, Jennifer returned to the stage to give the first-ever television performance of her powerful song, “Memory,” from her new movie, Cats. As always, Jennifer’s vocals were pure perfection, hitting every note with an emotional resonance that brought the iconic track to life. Her performance was a masterclass in vocal artistry, leaving the audience in awe of her immense talent and stage presence.
Another fantastic reunion brought together more beloved singers from Season 17. Joana Martinez, Myracle Holloway, and the group Hello Sunday joined forces for a powerful and spirited rendition of “Keep Me Hangin’ On.” Their collective energy and harmonizing abilities underscored the deep talent pool of the season, and their performance was a vibrant display of camaraderie and musical excellence.
The penultimate performance of the night came from country superstar Luke Combs. He delivered an emotional and heartfelt performance of his song, “Even Though I’m Leaving.” As Luke sang, sentimental pictures of the finalists flashed on the screen, adding an extra layer of emotion and reflection to the evening. His raw, honest delivery resonated deeply with the audience, creating a poignant moment that honored the journey and dedication of the four finalists.
The Moment of Truth: Announcing The Voice Season 17 Winner
After an incredible night of music, anticipation reached its peak as host Carson Daly prepared to announce the final results. The four finalists — Rose Short, Ricky Duran, Jake Hoot, and Katie Kadan — stood side-by-side, their coaches eagerly watching from the wings, their fates about to be revealed. The tension was palpable, a mix of excitement and nerves filling the air.
Carson Daly began by announcing the artist finishing in fourth place. After a dramatic pause, he revealed the name: ROSE SHORT. While a tough pill to swallow for her fans, Rose’s journey on the show was celebrated as extraordinary, showcasing her incredible vocal power and captivating stage presence. Her impact on the season was undeniable.
Next, the artist securing third place was announced: KATIE KADAN. Katie, with her unique bluesy voice and magnetic personality, had charmed audiences throughout the season. Her performances were consistently powerful and distinct, and her third-place finish acknowledged her remarkable talent and memorable contribution to the competition.
This left Ricky Duran and Jake Hoot as the final two, setting up a thrilling showdown between Team Blake and Team Kelly. The studio buzzed with excitement as the ultimate moment approached. Carson Daly held the envelope, building the suspense one last time before making the life-changing announcement.
And the winner of The Voice Season 17 is… JAKE HOOT! The crowd erupted in cheers as Jake Hoot, the unassuming country singer from Team Kelly, was crowned the champion. His win was a testament to his authentic country sound, his consistent performances, and the genuine connection he forged with the audience. Coach Kelly Clarkson celebrated joyfully, a proud mentor to the season’s victor. Jake’s journey, from a small-town singer to the winner of a major national singing competition, culminated in a truly triumphant moment, marking the end of another spectacular season of The Voice.