(Photos by: Tyler Golden/NBC)
It was a big night as The Voice made its first eliminations of artists from the Top 12. Sadly, it was the end of the line for Team Usher’s TJ Wilkins and Team Shakira’s Dani Moz. OHSOGRAY was on hand to talk with the TJ and Dani about their journey on the show and future plans. Both could not have been more gracious in taking their leave from the competition and had upbeat perspectives that this is only the beginning of their careers.
Dani
Dani has a positive perspective regarding her time on the show and says that the best part of the experience was being on The Voice stage every week. “The top 12 is insane. It’s a feat that I am so proud to have been able to conquer and I’m all smiles,” she said.
Fan support has also helped her throughout the competition. “It’s just so nice to see you’re connecting with people,” Dani explained of her relationship with her fans. “I’m so blessed and grateful to be able to provide those moments for people.”
It’s obvious for those who watch the elimination night episodes just how invested Shakira is in her team. When asked how Shakira reacted, Dani responded that she was surprised, but “[Shakira’s] nothing but proud. The proud mama. She’s just so sweet and had nothing but amazing things to say. We’re going to keep in touch and it’s going to be good.” As for the other coaches, “Usher was so sweet and gave be a big old hug,” while Adam reminded her that the show is just a stepping stone.
While her performances were the most meaningful part of the experience, Dani doesn’t discount another highlight – getting to meet Chris Martin. When reminded Martin is single now, Dani laughed, “I know! Trust me!”
TJ
Los Angeles native TJ described the reaction from the coaches to his departure. Blake said that he would miss him, and TJ was confident that the two will remain friends. TJ recalled, “Shakira, by far, was the most passionate. She just expressed her disbelief at me not being able to move on in the competition.” Adam’s advice to TJ was comprised of two little words…Jennifer Hudson. As for his coach, Usher, the two shared a laugh. Usher also expressed his surprise that TJ was leaving and told him, “Man, you did a great job. You’ve really done something spectacular.”
TJ’s plan after the show is “building from this moment, this platform.” In addition to singing, TJ would like to explore acting. TJ was initially hesitant about going into reality television, but has nothing but praise for his experience on the show. “At the Blind Audition, I saw a different side of reality competition in the sense that not only did the coaches not tear me down, they made me feel like I was an artist who already had ‘it.’”
When suggested that TJ might be able to trade on his new relationship with Usher to score some points with the ladies, TJ laughed. He imagined their responses would be, “Tell Usher I want to marry him!”
To keep up with Dani and TJ in their future endeavors, follow them on Twitter at @danimozmusic and @iamtjwilkins. Also tune in as the Live Rounds continue on NBC’s The Voice on Monday, April 28th at 8/7c.