“Voice” Singer’s Bluesy Hank Williams Cover Gets 4-Chair Turn…But Blake Blocks Kelly

As soon as Neil Salsich took to the Voice stage, the coaches knew they were in for a treat. Blake Shelton was an instant fan of his sound, and of his song choice, which was a Hank Williams classic.

Salsich performed Williams’ “Honky Tonk Blues.” Williams wrote the tune, and released it in 1952. It reached the second spot on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.

“Honky Tonk Blues” has been covered numerous times over the past seven decades. Now, Salsich can add his name to the list of performers who have covered the song in the past.

Shelton was the first coach to turn a chair for Salsich’s audition. It was clear he was a big fan of his voice…especially when he threw in a little yodel.

After being on The Voice for 22 seasons prior, Shelton knew Kelly Clarkson was probably interested in Salsich too. So he used his one and only “block” to keep her from claiming Salsich for her team.

Sure enough, Clarkson was the next coach to turn a chair for Salsich’s bluesy performance. It took her a second to realize she had been blocked, but once the realization hit, her reaction was priceless!

New coaches Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan ended up turning their chairs as well, giving Salsich a well-deserved four-chair turn.

The coaches showered Salsich with praise after his performance. Clarkson expressed her dismay that she was blocked, and said, “Your vibe is so cool man, it’s like old-school country.”

Shelton agreed, and specifically complimented Salsich’s tone when he yodeled. “It’s incredible,” he said.

With it being his last season as a coach, Shelton threw in one more comment that was destined to hit home. “I’d be honored for you to be on the last Team Blake,” he told Salsich.

That seemed to seal the deal. Although the other coaches made some nice pitches, Salsich knew he belonged on Team Blake. He picked him as his coach!

Head below to watch Salsich’s outstanding cover of “Honky Tonk Blues” and see Clarkson’s reaction to being blocked.