In the world of reality TV, we’re used to the frontrunners cruising toward the finish line with a massive lead. But the Season 27 finale of The Voice on May 20, 2025, threw that playbook out the window. Adam David, a 34-year-old blues-rocker from Fort Lauderdale, didn't just win; he pulled off a comeback that people are still texting about months later.
Honestly, it’s the kind of story that makes you actually believe in those "underdog" narratives the producers love to push. If you missed the live broadcast, you've probably heard the name, but the way he secured the win was anything but typical.
Who won season 27 of the Voice and how did it happen?
Let’s get the big name out of the way first. Adam David is the winner of The Voice Season 27. He gave Michael Bublé his second consecutive win as a coach, which is a pretty wild stat if you think about it. Bublé has basically come into this show and established a mini-dynasty in just two seasons. But for a long time during the live shows, it didn't look like Adam was going to be the one holding the trophy.
In fact, he almost didn't make the finale at all.
The Instant Save that changed everything
Most winners have a smooth ride through the semi-finals. Not Adam. During the Live Semi-Finals, he didn't receive enough viewer votes to automatically advance into the Top 4. He had to fight for the "Instant Save"—that high-pressure, last-minute performance where fans vote on their phones during a commercial break.
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It was a "make or break" moment. He sang his heart out, the internet went into a frenzy, and he snagged that fifth spot in the finale. He is officially the first "Instant Save" artist in the history of the show to go on and win the entire thing.
Talk about a turnaround.
The Finale Breakdown: Team Bublé vs. The World
The finale was stacked. You had a mix of country, R&B, and pure pop talent that made the voting tighter than it's been in years. Here is how the final standings actually shook out:
- Adam David (Winner) - Team Bublé
- Jaelen Johnston (Runner-up) - Team Kelsea Ballerini
- RENZO (Third Place) - Team John Legend
- Lucia Flores-Wiseman (Fourth Place) - Team Adam Levine
- Jadyn Cree (Fifth Place) - Team Bublé
It’s worth noting that Michael Bublé actually had two artists in the Top 5. Jadyn Cree, the daughter of Season 25 finalist Bryan Olesen, was a massive fan favorite early on. Most pundits—including the folks over at TVLine—actually predicted Jaelen Johnston or RENZO would take it home. Jaelen had that "country-voter" base behind him, and RENZO (who many remembered as Dennis Lorenzo from American Idol) was a vocal powerhouse.
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But Adam David had something else: grit.
Why Adam David resonated with viewers
Adam wasn't just a "good singer." He had a story that felt incredibly raw. He’s been open about his five-year journey with sobriety and how music basically saved his life. Before The Voice, he was performing at rehabilitation centers, using his guitar to help others through recovery.
That authenticity showed up in his song choices. During the finale, his rendition of Joe Cocker's "You Are So Beautiful" was a masterclass in restraint. He then followed it up with a duet of "The Weight" alongside Bublé that felt more like two old friends jamming in a garage than a televised competition.
Bublé himself told Parade after the show that he felt more like a "partner" than a coach. He even joked that he didn't want the other coaches to turn during Adam's Blind Audition because he knew immediately he had "his guy."
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A comeback for the ages
It's also interesting to look at the coaching dynamics this year. We saw the return of Adam Levine after a massive hiatus. People expected "Team Adam" to dominate, but Lucia Flores-Wiseman ended up in fourth. Kelsea Ballerini also made her debut as a full-time coach, nearly taking the whole thing with Jaelen Johnston.
Despite all the star power in the big red chairs, the season belonged to the guy who started as a one-chair turn. When Adam David’s name was announced by Carson Daly, he didn't just celebrate—he collapsed in tears. It was one of those rare TV moments that didn't feel scripted.
What happens next for the Season 27 champion?
Winning The Voice comes with the usual perks: a recording contract with Universal Music Group and a $100,000 cash prize. But the real challenge is what happens after the cameras stop rolling.
Historically, The Voice hasn't produced as many chart-topping stars as American Idol, but Adam David’s specific lane—soulful, bluesy rock—has a very loyal touring audience. He’s already hinted at wanting to get back into the studio to record an album that reflects his South Florida roots and his journey through recovery.
If you’re looking to follow his journey or see what the other finalists are up to, here’s what you should do:
- Check out his finale tracks: Both "Hard Fought Hallelujah" and his cover of "You Are So Beautiful" are available on most streaming platforms. They give the best look at his vocal range.
- Watch for Season 28: NBC has already confirmed the next lineup. Michael Bublé is returning to defend his title alongside Snoop Dogg, Reba McEntire, and Niall Horan.
- Follow the finalists: Jaelen Johnston is already rumored to be working on a country EP in Nashville, and RENZO is back in the studio producing for other artists.
Adam David’s win proved that you don’t need a four-chair turn or a perfect run through the brackets to win. You just need to survive long enough for the audience to find you.