Meet Ray Uriel, Team Chance's Soulful One-Chair Turn on 'The Voice'

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Jill O’Rourke is a contributor at Talent Recap, writing news stories and recaps for shows like ‘AGT,’ ‘The Voice,’ and ‘American Idol.’ She graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in English and Film Studies, and has been writing about pop culture since 2012, with previous bylines at Crushable and A Plus. Jill spends her free time binge-watching sitcoms and daydreaming about life as a hobbit

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Ray Uriel may have only turned one chair during The Voice Season 23 Blind Auditions, but he’s continued to prove himself as a force to be reckoned with. Ray is competing on Chance the Rapper’s team, winning his way through the Battles and Knockouts.

The Voice Artist Ray Uriel Started as a Theater Kid

Ray is originally from Gary, Indiana, although he has since moved to Arizona. The 25-year-old became interested in music at a young age and even attended a performing arts school. As he shared in his audition, he started out performing in choirs and doing musical theater, including a production of Les Misérables.

“I’m honored to be representing all of Indiana, especially Gary in this competition,” Ray told local news. “This is for all of the people back home who have inspired me over the years. I wouldn’t be here without the community that inspired and taught me all that I know about music and life.”

In 2020, Ray reportedly graduated with honors from the University of Indianapolis, where he studied music and theater. According to Ray’s The Voice bio, he currently works as a business and data analyst, but he spends his free time pursuing a career in music. He shared in his audition that he enjoys writing original songs, and he’s even released a few singles, including 2018’s “Escaped (We Don’t)” and his most recent title “Without Me.”

SEE ALSO: IS ‘THE VOICE’ RETURNING THIS FALL? EXPLORING THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR SEASON 24

Ray Turned Chance the Rapper’s Chair in the Blind Auditions

For his Blind Audition, Ray performed “Glimpse of Us” by Joji. It seemed like he might not turn any of the coaches’ chairs, but then at the very last second, Chance the Rapper hit his button to turn around. Ray automatically joined his team.

“You just remind me of a recording artist,” Chance told Ray after his performance. “You feel to me like a person that makes songs and has, you know, certain intricacies to your voice … I was like, ‘This dude has potential to kill any song.’ And I’m excited to work with you.”

Ray went on to compete in the Battles against NOIVAS on a cover of “Jealous Guy” by John Lennon. Chance chose Ray as the winner, and he moved on to the Knockouts. He performed “Lately” by Stevie Wonder and ended up beating NariYella to keep his spot on Chance’s team.

While you’re waiting to see Ray’s next performance on The Voice Season 23, you can follow his Instagram account.

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