Hollister singing sensation Joe Fata’s television time came to an end Sunday when he was eliminated during the second Battle Round of “La Voz Kids.”
Joe, who auditioned for the show and chose to join Team Pedro Fernandez in April, performed popular Mexican song “Echame a mi Culpa” with fellow team members Karina de Jesus Recamier and Shanty Zumaya. Judge Fernandez had the difficult decision of choosing which of the three would continue on to the finals and eliminated Joe and Karina.
“Even though it did not end like I had hoped, the overall experience was amazing,” Joe said. “I learned a lot from being a part of the two episodes. Working with Pedro Fernandez improved my articulation and interpretation, especially with being in front of a camera learning how to interact with a live audience. I also had the opportunity to answer interview questions which helped build my confidence in speaking Spanish. And I made many new, talented friends from all over the country.”
Eleven-year-old Fata–who specializes in regional Mexican music and is a member of Mariachi Juvenil Alma de Mexico–said he experienced many great things on the show, but one stood out.
“If I had to choose one moment, it was the moment during the blind auditions when I was feeling the adrenaline of being on the ‘La Voz Kids’ stage for the first time and presenting myself on camera,” he said.
Joe said even though it wasn’t the outcome he wanted, he has no plans on easing up on his pursuit of music.
“I will be attending Mariachi Nationals in Los Angeles this summer and competing with my group,” he said. “I plan to keep pursuing my musical career and maybe exploring different genres of music. I will keep my music going and be proud of what I’ve done.”
And he said he is grateful to come from a small town where he received so much support.
“Many people recognized me from the show and wished me good luck,” Joe said. “Hollister has supported me throughout this entire experience. I am so thankful for having this awesome community and proud to say that I am from Hollister.”
The last six voices going to the finals will be selected Sunday, May 10, at 8 p.m. on Telemundo, when 18 more kids compete in the last Battle Round. The winner of “La Voz Kids” will receive a recording contract and $50,000 to support his or her education.