Jordan Smith Crowned The Voice Season 9 Champion: Unveiling The Journey of America’s Singing Superstar

Jordan Smith has captivated millions with his undeniably powerful and unique voice, ultimately earning him the coveted title of champion on Season 9 of The Voice on December 15. His journey from a small town in Kentucky to America’s biggest stage was nothing short of spectacular, culminating in a win that felt both deserved and inevitable for many fans and judges alike. Throughout the competition, Smith consistently delivered breathtaking performances that transcended genres and touched the hearts of viewers, solidifying his status as a formidable talent. His victory was a testament to his incredible vocal abilities, his inspiring personal story, and the unwavering support of his coach, Adam Levine, as well as the millions of fans who voted him to the top. The finale was a nail-biting event, but in the end, the choice for coaches Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani, Pharrell, and Adam Levine became clear: Jordan Smith was destined for superstardom. Here are five essential things you need to know about The Voice Season 9 winner, Jordan Smith!

Jordan Smith’s remarkable journey on The Voice captivated audiences from his very first blind audition. His distinct voice and incredible range immediately set him apart, promising a season filled with unforgettable musical moments. As he progressed through the various rounds – from the fierce Battle Rounds to the intense Knockouts and ultimately the exhilarating Live Shows – Jordan consistently showcased his versatility and emotional depth. He wasn’t just a singer; he was a storyteller, connecting with each song on a profound level that resonated deeply with listeners. His path to victory was paved with incredible performances, each one building on the last, solidifying his fan base and convincing the judges of his extraordinary talent. Now, let’s dive into the fascinating details that make Jordan Smith the inspiring artist he is today.

1. Jordan Smith’s Lifelong Passion for Singing Began in Childhood

Jordan Smith’s musical roots run deep, cultivated from an early age by his musically inclined parents, Kelley and Geri Smith. His father, a professional pianist, and his mother, a talented singer, immersed their son in a world of melody and harmony, fostering a profound love for music within him. Growing up in Wallins Creek, Kentucky, Jordan’s earliest experiences with singing began in a church choir, a foundational environment where he discovered the power and beauty of his own voice. This early exposure not only honed his vocal skills but also instilled in him a spiritual connection to music that would later become a hallmark of his performances. The church became his first stage, allowing him to experiment with different vocal expressions and build confidence in his unique tone. The encouragement from his parents and the community provided a nurturing ground for his burgeoning talent.

His dedication to music continued throughout his education. Jordan pursued formal vocal training at Lee University, a institution known for its strong music programs. Here, he further refined his technique, expanded his range, and deepened his understanding of musical theory and performance. These academic pursuits were not just about skill development; they were about integrating his passion with rigorous training, preparing him for a career in music. A significant highlight of his college experience was performing with his university choir at the Presidential Inauguration in 2013. This prestigious event offered him a taste of performing on a national stage, an experience that undoubtedly shaped his aspirations and provided invaluable insight into large-scale performances. This rich background, combining familial influence, early church choir experiences, and formal university training, laid the perfect groundwork for his eventual triumph on The Voice, demonstrating that his winning talent was years in the making.

2. From Unknown to Billboard-Charting Artist During The Voice Season 9

Jordan Smith’s journey on The Voice was truly extraordinary, as he transitioned from an aspiring singer to a legitimate Billboard-charting artist *while still competing* on the show. This remarkable feat highlighted his immediate impact and immense appeal. His “Blind Audition” performance of Sia’s “Chandelier” was an immediate sensation, prompting a four-chair turn from all coaches and leaving them speechless with his soaring vocals and unexpected vocal range. It was clear from that moment that Jordan was a force to be reckoned with. However, it was during Week Two of the live shows when he performed the timeless hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” that Jordan made history. His soulful and utterly breathtaking rendition resonated deeply with audiences, leading to an unprecedented wave of support.

The public’s overwhelming response propelled his recording of “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” onto the prestigious Billboard magazine charts, where it remarkably landed at No. 30 on The Billboard Hot 100. This was an astonishing achievement for an unsigned artist competing on a reality television show. Furthermore, the song soared to No. 1 on the Christian Songs chart, where it remained for two consecutive weeks, solidifying his crossover appeal and the emotional power of his performance. Not content with just one chart-topping hit, Jordan repeated this success with his rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” which also hit No. 1 on the Christian Songs chart. These chart performances weren’t just impressive statistics; they were a clear indication of Jordan’s ability to connect with a mass audience, proving his music had a universal resonance. His unique interpretations, combined with his unparalleled vocal talent, consistently made his performances viral sensations, etching his name into the annals of The Voice history even before he was crowned the winner.

3. Jordan’s Enduring Love Story with Girlfriend, Kristen Denny

For those hoping to catch Jordan Smith’s eye, a gentle heads-up: he is happily and unequivocally taken! Jordan has been in a long-term, loving relationship with his fellow Kentuckian, Kristen Denny. Their bond is a beautiful testament to support and enduring affection, especially considering the whirlwind of fame that engulfed Jordan during and after The Voice. Kristen has been a pillar of strength and a constant source of encouragement throughout his challenging journey. She even flew to California to provide moral support during his nerve-wracking blind audition for The Voice, showcasing her unwavering commitment from the very beginning of his public career.

Maintaining a long-distance relationship can be incredibly challenging, particularly when one partner is on the cusp of becoming a major star. However, Jordan and Kristen have navigated these difficulties with grace and dedication, relying on frequent communication through platforms like Twitter and FaceTime to stay connected. Kristen, understanding the immense opportunity her boyfriend was pursuing, stood by him every step of the way, celebrating his triumphs and offering comfort during any moments of doubt. Their relationship is characterized by mutual respect and thoughtful gestures. A sweet example of Jordan’s devotion was when he sent Kristen a beautiful Kate Spade bag for her birthday, a clear sign that despite the growing fame and demanding schedule, he prioritizes their connection and ensures she feels cherished. Their story is a heartening reminder that even in the spotlight, true love and steadfast support can thrive, providing an essential anchor amidst the storms of celebrity.

4. Embracing Uniqueness: Jordan Smith’s Powerful Message of Self-Acceptance

Anyone who has witnessed Jordan Smith perform knows that his voice is truly one-of-a-kind – a high, resonant countertenor that is both powerful and emotionally stirring. This distinctive vocal quality, however, led to self-esteem issues for Jordan during his childhood. Growing up, the unexpected sound of his voice, often leading people to mistake him for a woman, created moments of confusion and insecurity. In a society that often pressures individuals to conform to specific norms, being “different than people expect you to be” can be a difficult path, especially for a young person discovering their identity. Yet, Jordan has courageously transformed these past challenges into a powerful platform for inspiration.

Instead of allowing these experiences to hinder him, Jordan uses his journey to advocate for self-acceptance and authenticity. He eloquently articulated his message to the Lexington Herald-Leader, stating, “On the show, they really highlighted the fact that I don’t look like I sound, which is OK with me, because that’s the message that I want to get across; that it’s okay to be different than people expect you to be and not fit the mold.” This statement encapsulates his profound commitment to empowering others. He further emphasized the importance of looking beyond superficial differences: “We live in a world that is hurting, where people disagree over things that don’t matter and things that are on the outside.” Jordan’s powerful voice, both literally and figuratively, has become a beacon for those who feel marginalized or misunderstood. He champions the idea that true strength lies in embracing one’s unique qualities and refusing to be confined by societal expectations, making him not just a musical talent, but a significant voice for individuality and acceptance in an often-judgmental world.

5. Jordan Smith’s Unconventional Halloween Traditions

It might come as a surprise, but Jordan Smith has never experienced a traditional trick-or-treating Halloween! Unlike many children who spend October 31st going door-to-door collecting candy, Jordan’s Halloween memories are distinctly different. This unique aspect of his childhood speaks to a perhaps more introspective or unconventional upbringing, and he shared charming details about his experiences with People in an interview. “I’ll dress up and watch Charlie Brown and hand out candy, but nobody would come to our house for the candy, so I’d eat all of it,” Jordan revealed, painting a vivid picture of a quiet, candy-filled evening spent at home. While some might deem this “sad,” it highlights a delightful quirk in his early life, turning a potentially lonely experience into a personal treat.

Despite missing out on the trick-or-treating circuit, Jordan found joy in other aspects of the holiday. He fondly recalled dressing up for Halloween, demonstrating his playful spirit. “I’ve dressed as Scooby Doo,” he mentioned, conjuring an image of a fun-loving kid embracing the festive spirit through costumes. As he grew older, these traditions evolved, often including his girlfriend Kristen. “My girlfriend and I dressed up as the Fox and the Hound – that was fun,” he added, indicating that even without the traditional elements, Halloween remained a time for fun and creativity. His Halloweens, though unconventional, were filled with personal delight, costume play, and, yes, plenty of candy. It’s a small, endearing detail that adds another layer to the charming personality of The Voice champion, showing that even without typical experiences, joy can be found in one’s own unique way.

Jordan Smith’s victory on The Voice Season 9 was not just a win for him, but a celebration of unique talent, perseverance, and authenticity. From his early days singing in a church choir to dominating the Billboard charts from a reality TV stage, Jordan has proven that true artistry knows no bounds. His journey is an inspiring testament to embracing one’s individuality and pursuing dreams with passion. We eagerly anticipate the incredible music and positive messages he will continue to share with the world.

HollywoodLifers, share your warmest congratulations for Jordan Smith in the comments below! What was your favorite performance from him on The Voice?