Birmingham Native Wows Judges with Song She’d Never Heard Before

Alabama A&M University alumna Jasmine “Jazz” McKenzie delivered another unforgettable performance on NBC’s "The Voice" this week, earning her place in the Knockout Rounds of Season 28.

In the Battle Rounds, McKenzie was paired with teammate Trinity for a duet of Jamiroquai’s “Virtual Insanity.” McKenzie stunned celebrity judges – Reba McEntire, Snoop Dogg, Niall Horan, and Michael Bublé – with her smooth vocals and confident stage presence.

“The song was chosen by my coach,” McKenzie said. “He told us he’d been trying to get this song on the show for several seasons, and this was the first time it stuck. I had never even heard it before, so it was interesting to learn. But I was honored to perform one of his favorites.”

Despite the challenge, McKenzie and Trinity delivered a flawless duet that drew enthusiastic praise from the judges.

“Working with Trinity was awesome,” McKenzie added. “She’s a powerhouse. We pushed each other to do our best, and it turned out beautifully.”

Trinity earned a “save” from Bublé, but McKenzie ultimately advanced – solidifying her reputation as one of the standout vocalists of the season.

Now one of just 36 contestants remaining, McKenzie is preparing for the next phase of the competition – the Knockout Rounds – where singers perform solo for a chance to advance to the live shows.

“It always makes my heart smile to hear the judges’ reactions right after a performance,” she said. “You can tell their responses are genuine and fresh. To have artists I’ve admired for years speak directly to me and pour into me – it’s beautiful.”

McKenzie, a Birmingham native who now lives in Huntsville, made her "The Voice" debut in September with a “four-chair turn” during the blind auditions – an achievement few contestants earn. Though Bublé turned his chair last, he won McKenzie to his team after McEntire used her one “block” to keep Snoop Dogg from claiming her.

McKenzie says her passion for performing blossomed at Alabama A&M University when she joined Sigma Alpha Iota, an international music fraternity. She returned to campus last weekend for AAMU’s 150th Anniversary Homecoming Celebration.

“Homecoming was incredible!” she said. “The Day Party and the tailgate were definitely the highlights for me! The food, the vibes, the people – it was all perfect. I got to reconnect with classmates and felt so much love and support. It truly meant a lot.”

Heading into the Knockout Rounds, McKenzie said her focus remains on purpose, not perfection.

“I always say, ‘What’s for you won’t miss you,’” she said. “I went into this round with doubts, but I came out with peace. I wasn’t chasing perfection – I was chasing purpose. That’s what carried me through.”

You can watch McKenzie as "The Voice" continues Mondays and Tuesdays at 7 p.m. CST on NBC. The next “The Battles” episode will air Oct. 20, according to the NBC website. Once contestants have gone through “The Battles,” McKenzie and the remaining contestants will appear in what’s known as “The Knockouts.”

(Photos courtesy NBC)