"The Voice" Playoffs have been one of the most competitive rounds on the show so far, and Team Reba impressed the coaches — and made McEntire's decision a bit harder — on Monday night. One of the highlights of the evening was standout, 16-year-old singer Ruby Leigh. She took on Linda Ronstadt's "Long, Long, Time," bringing a vulnerable aspect to the song.
Leigh mentioned prior to the performance that she's never experience heartbreak like the kind Ronstadt sings about, but one wouldn't know by watching her performance. The singer infused genuine emotion into the tune, and the coaches looked truly captivated. Leigh also showcased her unique, timeless voice throughout the performance, offering a mix of quiet and powerful vocals as she connected with the story of the song.
Gwen Stefani handed Leigh a huge compliment after her rendition.
"I think that if there was just a young girl that's 16 years old that could sing like you, that could make a record like that, the world would be saved," she said.
John Legend said it's "stunning" that Leigh is able to exude so much emotion at such a young age. Niall Horan told Leigh her cover is the best version of the song he's ever heard. He then called attention to Leigh's father, who had tears streaming down his face. Horan also shared a strong statement about Leigh making it through to the next round.
"I'm so excited to see you in the lives, and if you don't go to the lives, Reba's getting fired," he said.
"They're going to take her crown and her scepter," said Legend. "She's going to be dethroned."
When McEntire spoke to Leigh, she shared the pride she has for her team member. She also compared the way she felt watching Leigh to the way her own mother must have felt when she watched McEntire perform.
"You've just got it all together," she said. "I'm so proud of you, and your performance today was stellar."
Leigh was the third artist to make it through to the live shows on Team Reba. She joins two other talented female singers as they head to the next round.
"The Voice" airs Monday and Tuesday nights on NBC.
