James was 18 when his mom passed away, and he's dealt with depression ever since. Usher notes that James sings behind the beat. After Ian met his current partner, he got sober. Blake notes Ian's habit of dropping out of a line. And that was a super-short mentoring session!

Ian Flanigan – Beautiful Crazy by Luke Combs – I've said this before, but Ian's tone is not for me? I'm not a fan of deep male voices. Plus, he sounds like he needs to hawk up a hairball. Also, his voice isn't very forceful. His phrasing needs to carry him. But he's different enough to be appealing to some folks, I'm sure.  

James Pyle – In My Blood by Shawn Mendes – Poor James. He's fighting a losing battle. I prefer his voice personally. But Blake is obviously enamored with Ian. Also, Ian has the more identifiable sound. Plus…was his performance edited? That was really short.

Oh. Blake stole James from John. He compliments his range. Gwen calls James' voice "stunning." She thinks they are "both super talented." Kelly loved James phrasing. But she appreciates Ian's vibe. Blake picks Ian, James is eliminated

Team Gwen Stefani – Joseph Soul vs Van Andrew

This performance was edited into a montage. No mentoring session. We heard most of Joseph's performance. But NONE of Van's. Poor guy. 

Joseph Soul – lovely by Billie Eilish ft Khalid
Van Andrew – Human by The Killers

Gwen Picks Joseph, Van is eliminated

Team Kelly Clarkson – Kelsie Watts vs Madeline Consoer

Kelsie experienced an emotionally abusive relationship, which is why she chose Alanis' 90's anthem to anger. She's in a healthy relationship now. Wait. She met her husband "waiting in line at a singing competition." Was that American Idol? Do we know this guy, or nah? ETA: His name is Brandon Brits. Kelly and Usher feel she picked a HARD song. They advise her to be ANGRY and INTENSE. Madeline has also had "horrible" relationships. She cried when she first heard her song choice on the radio. Usher and Kelly push Madeline to be more vulnerable. 

Kelsie Watts – You Oughta Know by Alanis Morissette – Kelsie does have a tall order. She's putting her own stamp on the song, but I'm not convinced it's a great song choice, because it's so easy to over sing. Indeed, the performance is a bit overwrought.

Madeline Consoer – Die from a Broken Heart by Maddie & Tae – Madeline's performance isn't as showy. But I prefer this? It feels real and authentic. Madeline has a beautiful tone and simple, emotional phrasing. I'd give the round to her. 

Blake thinks Kelsie really made her song work. Blake wishes Madeline was on his team. John felt Madeline was connected. He felt Kelsie did a good job staying true to the song, but also doing her thing. He'd lean towards her. Gwen is blown away by Kelsie's talent. Kelly is torn! Kelly picks Madeline. Kelsie is eliminated. That was the right choice. Kelly considers Madeline a "hidden gem" the other coaches missed.

Team Gwen Stefani 

As a 14 year old theater kid with a voice that hasn't dropped yet, Carter has suffered at the hands of bullies. So he chose the song because it embodies his struggle with other kids his age. Usher reminds Carter to breath properly, and support himself with air. The talented Chloe teaches middle school kids like Carter about the history of black music. Thank god John uses his steal tonight.

Carter Rubin – You Say by Lauren Daigle – It's a perfect song choice for Carter. It's age appropriate, and gives him the opportunity to show off his strong, clear upper register. FINGERS CROSSED HIS VOICE DOESN'T START CHANGING, RIGHT. The coaches are on their feet. "I can't breath!" says an emotional Kelly.

Chloé Hogan – Weak by SWV – This is such a weird match up–a young tween singer vs a mature singer who could be his voice teacher. I don't know this song at all, but Chloe is really bringing it home. Her interpretation of the song is a great combination of R&B and jazz. 

Kelly says Carter's performance "broke" her. But she loves Chloe's texture and tone. Blake marvels at Carter's skill. But he loved Chloe's performance, calling it magical.. "You had the moment of the night," he says. John reminds everyone he has a steal, as he gushes over Chloe's performance. Ha. Gwen calls it a difficult moment. But of course, Gwen picks Carter, leaving it open for John to steal Chloe. Most predictable result ever. Chloe was a one chair turn, which is why she isn't on his team in the first place. Her cerebral personality is a much better fit for Team Legend.