Kevin Simm was crowned winner of The Voice UK on Saturday night, beating Lydia Lucy, Jolan and Cody Frost to win a recording deal with Universal Music. When presenter Marvin Humes announced the result Kevin was visibly shocked and overwhelmed.
“I cannot believe it! I’m so grateful to everyone that supported me. I couldn’t have dreamed this would have happened. So grateful for everyone that’s voted, everyone that’s worked on the show, that’s made this experience happen” said Kevin.
During Saturday’s final, Kevin performed three songs, one being a duet with Ricky Wilson performing ‘Mr Brightside’. His solo performances were Rihanna’s ‘Stay’, and the winner’s single titled ‘All You Good Friends’, which is available now on all digital platforms and streaming platforms – a first for the winner’s single.
‘All You Good Friends’ was produced by Peter-John Vettese who has worked with everyone from Sia to the James Bay, and co-written by Jamie Hartman who used to be a member of the band Ben’s Brother, and Nina Woodford who has written for Leona Lewis and Christina Milian. At least 20 pence from the sale of each download and at least 50% of Universal’s receipts from each stream will go to Comic Relief.
Kevin was a familiar face to many – he was previously part of pop five-piece Liberty X, topping the UK charts in 2002 with the unforgettable ‘Just A Little’. Fast forward 14 years, an artist is reborn, channeling classic soul inspiration from the likes of Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder to impressive effect. His versatility has continued to impress week after week, with stunning versions of Adele’s ‘Rolling In The Deep’ and Sia’s ‘Chandelier’ being met with rapturous applause – and in the latter case, a full house of turns from The Voice coaches.
On the night Kevin was praised by all of the coaches for his performances:
“Passion, determination, and more importantly, the belief that he can win this show” – Ricky
“Very very on point mate. You’ve got confidence from being in the final. I felt it emotionally, and I think everyone else did in the audience” – Boy George
“I’ve been Team Kevin since the beginning. The first audition when you got four turns. Absolutely so exceptional and emotionally connected, it’s blown my mind. The nation’s fallen in love with you” – Paloma Faith
“Really fresh, really really spectacular” – will.i.am
