From the very first note, DREION set the stage ablaze. Representing Omaha, Nebraska, he stepped up to the mic for a blind audition in Season 26 and delivered a rendition of “Shining Star” that stunned everybody.

His voice had power, nuance, and that soaring falsetto that made the original irresistible — but DREION made it his own.

He earned not just one or two, but a four‑chair turn from the coaches: Michael Bublé flipped first, followed closely by Reba McEntire and Snoop Dogg; Gwen Stefani waited until the second verse before being swept in by his performance.

Part of what made the performance special wasn’t just DREION’s vocal ability — though that was superb — but the stage presence. He moved with confidence, communicated feel, and owned the moment.

The coaches repeatedly praised not just his singing, but how he connects — with his voice, with his body, with the audience.

His backstory added even more weight. DREION is a foster care survivor, and he’d previously toured with Earth, Wind & Fire — which gave a poignant authenticity to him covering one of their signature tunes.

The battle for his allegiance among the coaches was dramatic and fun. Snoop Dogg and Gwen Stefani, especially, got into a playful competition, each trying to woo him with personality, flair, and showmanship. Gwen even got out of her chair to show off her sparkle‑laden shoes as part of her pitch. In the end, DREION chose Team Snoop.

DREION’s performance seems to be one of the clearest instances of The Voice contestants taking on Earth, Wind & Fire and making the song feel fresh, meaningful, and powerful.

While there haven’t been many other standout covers of theirs in recent seasons (at least not with the same media attention), this particular audition has resonated widely with fans and critics alike.

Beyond the technical aspects — hitting the high notes, maintaining pitch, commanding falsetto — what made it burn was emotional truth.

DREION’s history, the way he honored the song by bringing his own story to it, gave more than just musical impressiveness; it brought connection. Coaches noted that. Viewers felt it.

This kind of cover works because Earth, Wind & Fire songs already carry so much legacy: tight harmonies, funky rhythm, lyrics about joy, love, light. To cover one of their classics and not merely mimic it takes artistry and risk.

DREION’s “Shining Star” audition is a reminder of how powerful a familiar song can be when someone steps into it with their own voice and presence.

It’ll be exciting to see if there are more Earth, Wind & Fire covers in this season of The Voice — or if other contestants try to match the heat that DREION lit. Fans are watching, and this kind of moment sets a high bar: musical fidelity, showmanship, personal story, and emotional delivery all aligned.