From the world of children's entertainment to the bright lights of a singing competition – it's a journey that's captivating audiences everywhere!
Lottie Elizabeth Johnson, a Deseret News entertainment reporter, is shining a spotlight on Toni Lorene, a contestant on Season 28 of The Voice. But here's where it gets interesting: before wowing the coaches on the show, millions already knew Lorene's voice, though perhaps not in the way you'd expect.
Lorene, a 28-year-old singer from Houston, Texas, has been a voice actor for the immensely popular children’s show CoComelon. This YouTube sensation, now a Netflix hit, features nursery rhymes and songs that have captured the hearts of young viewers worldwide. In fact, CoComelon was the second most-watched Netflix program in 2024, just behind Bridgerton, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Now, Lorene is stepping into the spotlight on The Voice, and she's making waves with each performance. Her energetic rendition of Patti LaBelle’s “Lady Marmalade” during the Knockout round left the coaches in awe.
“You’re just a machine,” praised coach Niall Horan, highlighting the unique qualities of her voice. Snoop Dogg, Lorene's coach, was equally impressed, choosing her to advance, and emphasizing her spirit and confidence. He expressed his excitement for her future rounds.
During her audition, Lorene sang Lizzo’s “Cuz I Love You,” captivating all coaches except Michael Bublé, who immediately regretted not turning his chair. Reba McEntire lauded her range and style, while Horan marveled at her confidence, saying she “absolutely nailed that.” Lorene ultimately chose to work with Snoop Dogg, who promised to help her find songs that perfectly suited her style.
In the Battle round, Lorene went head-to-head with Utah singer Sadie Dahl, performing Rihanna’s “Love on the Brain.” Horan called the performance “very, very special,” noting the exceptional technique in Lorene’s voice. Snoop Dogg selected Lorene to advance, praising her “star power.”
But here’s a question that might get you thinking: Who does Toni Lorene play on CoComelon? She's the voice of Cody's mom!
Lorene's experience singing on a cruise ship for six months inspired her to audition for The Voice. She told Deepest Dream that she felt, "OK, people actually want to just hear my voice.”
She adds, "I was used to singing in musical theater. (I was) playing a role and not being my true self. I didn’t think that people would want to hear my voice for what it was on its own. Now that I have this different platform and have been a little successful, it’s started the gears working. In the next few months to a year, you should be seeing some EPs and (me) working on music.”
What do you think of Toni Lorene's journey from CoComelon to The Voice? Do you think her experience in children's entertainment gives her an advantage, or does it present unique challenges? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
