Back in December of 2023, Adele told The Hollywood Reporter that she wasn’t fond of other people covering her songs since they cannot relate to them on the same level.
“I don’t mind it when they do, but I’m just saying they’re never going to be able to emote it,” she said.
But had she heard Asher HaVon’s rendition of her power ballad “Set Fire To Rain,” she might be singing a different tune.
The Alabama-based singer, minus a high-profile gig involving Barack Obama, was more accustomed to performing at church than on a massive stage.
Still, HaVon wowed judges on “The Voice” during his blind audition—beginning with rich, earthy tones that effortlessly soared to goosebump-inducing high notes.
“Asher, what an incredible voice you have,” Reba McEntire said afterwards. “Your range, your power, I couldn’t wait to turn around and see what you look like.”
John Legend, though he didn’t turn his chair for HaVon, seconded McEntire’s opinion, saying “it went in so many different places and your voice has so many different pockets that are very cool.”
Take a listen below:
Feeling chills? You’re not alone. Check out what other viewers had to say:
“Right out of the gate Asher sounded amazing and he just got better and better. Crazy vocal, range,and runs.”
“He took that steadying breath and out came this legit sound, deep and sonorous. It was a little surprising. I thought he’d be a high tenor. He showed the low but also got some squall, falsetto, and grit in there. Well done, man!”
“After the Intro I didn’t expect such a huge range. Asher nailed it!!! Great Performance.”
“This had me smiling from start to finish. This is probably the best rendition I have heard of this song and his voice is astronomical.”
“Absolutely gorgeous version of the song. Asher totally made that song his own!”
“This man is vocally exceptional. His voice was soulful and powerful. And the song choice further supported his voice.”
It might be true that no one can relate to a song the exact same way the creator of the song does. But we can infuse our own emotions and interpretations into those works, creating something fresh and new. It’s definitely one of the more magical aspects of the human condition.