Team Reba’s Leyton Robinson & Manny Costello Deliver a Show-Stopping Chris Stapleton Duet on The Voice
Coach Reba McEntire faced one of her toughest decisions yet after two of her strongest country artists, Leyton Robinson and Manny Costello, teamed up for an unforgettable Battle Round performance on The Voice Season 28.
Contestants Pick Their Own Partners for the First Time
This season brought a major twist — contestants got to choose their own battle partners for the first time in the show’s history. Leyton and Manny decided to pair up, feeling their styles would blend perfectly. Their instincts proved spot-on, impressing both Reba and her Battle Round advisor, Nick Jonas, from the moment rehearsals began.
For their duet, the country singers took on Chris Stapleton’s soulful 2024 hit “Think I’m in Love with You,” which reached No. 12 on Billboard’s country charts.
A Captivating Performance That Left Coaches in Awe
When the lights went up, both singers delivered a powerhouse performance filled with heartfelt emotion, textured vocals, and effortless harmonies.
Michael Bublé praised Leyton’s remarkable versatility, saying she “could sing the phone book.” Turning to Manny, he admired the “great texture” in his voice.
Snoop Dogg was equally impressed, calling the duet “amazing” and applauding the chemistry between them:
“I love the ins and outs and the camaraderie at the end when y’all separated to let that big moment come together as one.”
Niall Horan highlighted a side of Manny’s voice he hadn’t heard before:
“That grit was really cool to hear. And Leyton, your voice is piercing — in the best way.”
Reba Faces a Difficult Decision
After hearing the other coaches’ thoughts, Reba McEntire took a deep breath before making her decision.
“I’m very proud of you both,” she said. “Even from rehearsals, you’ve grown so much.”
She then offered kind words to each singer:
To Leyton: “I love your voice, I love your look — everything about it is so professional.”
To Manny: “I’ve always loved that little gravelly grit. It was so good.”
After careful thought, Reba named Leyton Robinson as the winner of the battle. Though she hinted she hoped another coach might use a steal to save Manny, none did — though Michael Bublé admitted later that he “considered it.”
Reba Explains Her Choice
Following the show, Reba revealed why she ultimately chose Leyton to move forward:
“I think I could help her. I’m just so impressed with her vocals, and I want to give her some songs that really challenge her. I think she’ll rise to the occasion.”
A Performance Fans Won’t Forget
Leyton Robinson and Manny Costello’s duet of “Think I’m in Love with You” showcased everything The Voice stands for — artistry, heart, and undeniable chemistry. It may have been a battle, but both walked away winners in the eyes of the audience.
Watch their stunning Battle Round performance below — and decide for yourself: did Reba make the right call?