Fil-Am from Las Vegas shines on ‘The Voice’
Jessica Manalo / Screencap from The Voice/YouTube
Filipino talent continues to shine on the international stage, with Jessica Manalo – a Filipino American singer from Las Vegas – making waves on “The Voice USA.”
Following the historic win of Sofronio Vasquez as the first Asian and Filipino champion of the singing competition, Manalo has stepped into the spotlight, leaving quite an impression in the latest season’s blind auditions.
During her performance, it was Michael Bublé, Vasquez’s coach, who first hit his button upon hearing Manalo reach the chorus, quickly followed by Kelsea Ballerini.
The Las Vegas-based Filipina shared her overwhelming emotions in an Instagram post, expressing gratitude for the love and support she has received.
“Where do I begin? The last 24 hours have been overwhelming. My heart is full and I am in shock from the love and support from so many near and far.” she wrote.
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Manalo also revealed that her blind audition had been given an early sneak peek by NBC ahead of its official airing. “BUT who do I choose?? You’ll have to see for yourself! Keep watching every Monday, tune into @nbc!!” she teased.
Among the many who showed support was Vasquez, who proudly commented, “PILIPINAS.” Manalo further embraced her Filipino heritage by reposting congratulatory messages and affirming her identity with the caption, “Yes, I am Filipina,” alongside a Philippine flag emoji.
Ballerini was evidently impressed, praising Manalo’s artistry and unique musicality.
“I love that song, and it took me a minute to realize that you had reimagined it, then I turn around and you’re playing a guitar,” she said. “I play guitar. You’re a musician, you’re a creative, I love that you’re from Vegas — I’m feeling lucky. Women are killing it in music right now, specifically women who have these really identifiable voices and styles, and that’s what you have.”
Bublé, in his signature charm, made his case with a playful remark: “Sure, you could go to Team Kelsea. You could go to this incredibly young, smart, talented, really fresh-brained woman, or you could be with a much older — what was I saying?”
Manalo, 31, told KSNV her passion for music began with playing trumpet in a jazz band as a child.
The Las Vegas native has headlined performances at the Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas and opened shows for renowned artists Allen Stone and Bruno Major.
