NORMAL — Alabama A&M University alumna Jazz McKenzie delivered a powerful and unforgettable performance during Monday night’s live finale of NBC’s “The Voice,” closing out a life-changing journey on one of television’s biggest stages.
McKenzie captivated a national audience with emotional renditions of Phil Collins’ “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” and Olivia Rodrigo’s “drivers license.” Her performances showcased the vocal range, artistry, and stage presence that carried her through weeks of competition.
Selected among the top six finalists from a nationwide pool of more than 40 competitors, McKenzie represented Team Michael Bublé alongside fellow finalist Max Chambers. The finale also featured Dek of Hearts, Aiden Ross from Team Niall Horan, Aubrey Nicole from Team Reba McEntire, and Ralph Edwards from Team Snoop Dogg.
On Tuesday night, Ross was crowned the winner of “The Voice” Season 28 following America’s vote.
As voting opened Monday evening, McKenzie called on the Alabama A&M community for support, with Bulldog Nation responding in full force through NBC’s website and official apps.
The two-night live finale featured performances by finalists, coaches and special musical guests including Noah Cyrus, Journey, Khalid and XG.
As part of the finale, each finalist performed a duet with their coach. McKenzie shared the stage with Michael Bublé, marking another milestone in her growth throughout the competition.
A native of a musical family, McKenzie grew up singing in church but credits her time at Alabama A&M University with helping her develop into a confident performer.
After joining Sigma Alpha Iota, an international music fraternity, she began pursuing music more intentionally, leading to performances at Huntsville’s Panoply Arts Festival and opportunities to share the stage with artists including Doug E. Fresh, Chrisette Michele, Leela James, Avery Sunshine and Kem.
Her journey to “The Voice” began unexpectedly.
“It all started with a DM I got on TikTok in February for this video that started gaining attention,” McKenzie said. “At first, I thought it was a scam. But when I got the same message on Instagram and through email, I called my friends — who are all AAMU grads — and we checked it out. It turned out to be real.”
Throughout the season, McKenzie said the encouragement from Alabama A&M supporters never wavered.
“AAMU has been behind me since day one, and I’m grateful,” McKenzie said. “I appreciate all of the love and support.”
Though her Voice journey has concluded, McKenzie leaves the competition with national recognition, a growing fan base and momentum that continues to build.
Her musical journey is far from over, as coach Michael Bublé has invited her to Nashville in January to collaborate on recording his upcoming country project, signaling the next chapter in a career that continues to shine and makes Bulldog Nation proud every step of the way.
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