Lakeland teen Savannah Brister, 17, will take a well-earned spot this season on NBC’s “The Voice.”
She began her musical path as a pianist at age 7 and later focused on developing her vocal capabilities. She began training in earnest when she was 13, and she took lessons with Bob Westbrook (a former teacher of Justin Timberlake’s) and then at e.Studios Performing Arts in Cordova with Mandi Thomas.
As Brister sharpened her skills, she began showcasing her talents at local performances at fairs, festivals and other events. She has since released two singles and developed a personal style that leans toward soul, R&B and a hint of jazz.
For the show, she chose to learn with John Legend because of their compatible musical styles and his success.
Now she is advancing to the “Battle Rounds” of the reality TV show’s singing competition. Watch for these rounds to air starting March 25.
Brister’s audition was a Stevie Wonder favorite, “Don’t You Worry ’bout a Thing,” from his album “Innervisions.” Multiple artists have done covers, including Tori Kelly’s 2016 rendition, and Brister admires Kelly’s work.
