Country music icon Reba McEntire, known for her powerful performances and unshakable composure, experienced a rare emotional moment on the September 22 episode of The Voice. During the blind auditions, Georgia native Manny Costello delivered a soul-stirring rendition of Craig Morgan’s hit, Almost Home, that left Reba visibly moved and reaching for tissues.
A Performance That Hits Home
Manny’s performance was far from ordinary. From the very first note, his voice carried a warmth and depth that resonated with both the judges and the audience. As the song unfolded, Reba’s eyes welled up with tears, and by the end of the performance, she admitted, her voice breaking, “Manny, you made me homesick.” This moment was not just about musical talent; it was a connection that went beyond the stage, evoking memories of the greats who shaped Reba’s own journey in country music. She added, “You’ve got qualities from George Jones and Merle Haggard, and there’s a little Randy Travis in there. It’s just a great combination. Gosh dang, why am I getting so emotional? It’s tears of joy.”
The emotion on Reba’s face reflected the profound impact of Manny’s voice—a mix of grit, smoothness, and authenticity that can’t be manufactured. Social media quickly responded, with fans praising the singer for having a voice “like country butter, smooth as silk, rich, and soothing.” Many echoed Reba’s sentiments, noting that his style captured the essence of classic ’70s and ’80s country legends.
A Moment of Unexpected Humor
Adding a touch of lightheartedness to the emotional scene was none other than Snoop Dogg. Sitting casually in his red chair, wearing his signature shades, Snoop watched the performance with quiet admiration. Reba, struggling to hold back tears, called out to him as “Snoopy,” prompting him to hand her tissues with a playful grin. The unexpected juxtaposition of Snoop Dogg chilling in the studio while Reba cried over a heartfelt country ballad had fans both laughing and crying, highlighting the unpredictable magic of The Voice.
The Story Behind the Song
Manny Costello’s connection to Almost Home was deeply personal. Before stepping on stage, he shared the inspiration behind his choice: “This song is about a man who doesn’t have much, if anything at all. I look at my life, and I look at where I’m at right now, and the people that I get to say love me, I feel very blessed and fortunate.” His words set the stage for a performance that was not only technically impressive but also emotionally authentic. His tone was warm, his vibrato steady, and his delivery sincere—qualities that resonated with both the judges and viewers alike.
Family Ties and Musical Inspiration
Manny’s daughters, Maggie and Leighton, are avid fans of Reba, and their enthusiasm played a role in his choice to audition. He explained, “I love hanging out with my daughters. We bond, we cuddle a lot, we watch the Reba show all the time. My daughters love music. They love when I sing. I want to show them that you can put anything you put your mind to if you believe in yourself.” This familial connection added another layer of authenticity to his performance, showing that music can inspire not just audiences but also loved ones at home.
Reba’s Emotional Connection
For Reba, the audition was more than just an opportunity to find a new team member—it was a reminder of why she fell in love with country music in the first place. Reflecting on the moment, she shared, “I feel very blessed to be in the country music business all these years. You just triggered something that needed to come out and say, ‘Happy to be here.’ I’d love you on my team.” The moment underscored the enduring power of music to evoke deep emotions and create connections that transcend age, location, and background.
Audience Reaction and Social Media Buzz
Viewers were equally captivated by Manny’s performance. Online fans praised his ability to channel classic country influences while maintaining a unique, contemporary voice. One fan commented, “His tone, his vibrato, his classic sound, wow!” Others were struck by the raw emotion and storytelling, highlighting how a single song can touch hearts in unexpected ways. The combination of Reba’s tears, Snoop Dogg’s playful antics, and Manny’s heartfelt delivery made this blind audition a standout episode in the season.
The Magic of The Voice
This unforgettable moment on The Voice exemplifies what makes the show a cultural phenomenon. It’s a platform where emerging talent meets seasoned icons, creating moments that are raw, authentic, and emotionally charged. One singer, one song, and one opportunity can leave a lasting impression not only on the judges but also on millions of viewers watching from home. Reba’s reaction to Manny’s performance serves as a reminder that music’s true power lies in its ability to connect people, evoke emotions, and transport listeners back to the roots of their favorite genres.
Conclusion
Manny Costello’s performance of Almost Home on The Voice will be remembered as a defining moment of the season. It highlighted the timeless appeal of country music, the personal stories behind each song, and the unexpected joy of seeing musical legends like Reba McEntire touched to their core. As fans eagerly follow the season, moments like these reaffirm the magic of live music and the enduring impact of heartfelt performances.
From a young Georgian singer to a legendary country icon moved to tears, this episode of The Voice showcased how music continues to bring people together, inspire the next generation of performers, and remind us all of the beauty of heartfelt expression. Reba’s emotional response, Manny’s dedication, and the audience’s reaction combined to create a truly unforgettable television moment—a perfect illustration of why we continue to tune in, year after year, to witness the transformative power of music.