Do you believe in magic? I’m not talking about the kind where you pull a rabbit out of the hat or disappear into thin air. I’m referring to how a song can have that dream-like quality, that sparkling “je ne sais quois” in its musical composition and lyrics. One that takes you far away from your every day to a different land, in a different space and time.
One such song that has found its way into many hearts, young and old, over the course of decades, involves a girl who gets stuck in a tornado, walks a yellow brick road and ends up with a gleaming pair of ruby red slippers. Does this ring a bell?
Hands down, one of the most magical songs in history is the Wizard of Oz’s “Over The Rainbow,” made famous by Judy Garland. It’s a big song sung by a big voice, and on The Voice Kids, we get to hear another incredible version of the old favourite.
It’s the blind auditions and the judges’ backs are turned. Little Anna steps on stage and the music cues her in. The young girl starts on a high note, singing the first syllable of the familiar show tune, and by the uttering of the second syllable, one judge slams the buzzer and turns around, eager to see where this captivating voice is coming from.
The girl’s voice is delicate and has range. She’s able to throw it, reaching all the high notes while carrying the same cadence and sing-songy quality of the original. There’s a bit of a jazzy sound too, she’s got the maturity of a lounge singer’s voice, and with a little coaching, it will only get stronger. It’s obvious in the way she uses her voice. Her vocal agility and breath work are proof that she’s put in a lot of practice and hard work to get to where she’s standing today. Her voice is sweet but mighty, packing a punch that has the next two judges buzzing, and turning to reveal their wide-eyed faces.
The girl’s family is excited, happy that she’s got all three judges on her side. As she comes to a close, Anna receives a standing ovation, both the panel of judges and the audience are happy to watch the young girl take over the stage and breathe new life into the song. She’s reminding us of its magic!
Click on the video below to watch Anna deliver a stellar version of “Over The Rainbow.”
