Pharrell Williams Is Set To Join Season 7 Of 'The Voice'
Jason Scott
March 31, 2014
There's a new sheriff in town, folks! The hat-wearing pop tastemaker Pharrell Williams is confirmed to be joining NBC's blockbuster singing competition next season. Shifting in for Cee Lo Green, this will be the "Happy" singer's first time ever on The Voice, adding a bit of industry cred to the show's reputation.
The show made the reveal this afternoon after a series of rather cryptic tweets. The hints ranged from comments about being "out of this world" to his shoe fashion to a glowing smiley face. After a bit more teasing, the network finally revealed, posting, "Okay, we can OFFICIALLY say it! WE ARE SO #HAPPY to announce PHARRELL WILLIAMS = #NewVoiceCoach for SEASON 7."
“It’s been a huge year for Pharrell, with recognition for his contribution in the world of music — the ‘Despicable Me’ franchise soundtracks, his Oscar-nominated song ‘Happy’ and his Grammy-winning collaboration with Daft Punk on the breakout dance hit ‘Get Lucky.’ His dominance in record sales in 2014, coupled with his incomparable accomplishments in the world of fashion and design, make him an irresistible addition to ‘The Voice’ family,” said Paul Telegdy, President, Alternative and Late Night Programming, NBC Entertainment, in an official press release.
He added, “He has already made a considerable impact as a mentor, drawing on an impressive track record as both a producer and performer. It is a perfect fit for ‘The Voice’ as we evolve and reach for new heights with this franchise. It feels like we are welcoming an existing family member home.”
Executive producer Mark Burnett noted: “I am thrilled to have Pharrell come back to ‘The Voice’ family, and this time … as a coach. Continuing in ‘The Voice’ tradition of having the biggest and most current music stars as coaches, Pharrell fits perfectly.”
Despite the show not yet having born a bonafide superstar, Williams' placement does warrant lots of needed buzz. Previously the show has done a bit of flip-flopping, with Shakira currently at the reigns instead of the usual blonde powerhouse Christina Aguilera. Usher, too, has been sitting in for Green this season.
Last month, the "Crazy" performer revealed on The Ellen Degeneres Show that he would not be returning to the show at all. “I’m not coming back at all,” he hold host and comedian Ellen Degeneres.
He added, “I’m going to continue my relationship with NBC. I have a television show development deal with them as well and hopefully some other talk show opportunities for later in the year. But yeah, I’m going to miss The Voice, too.”
Panel mainstays Maroon 5's Adam Levine and country singer Blake Shelton have not taken a break from the show, yet, since its stateside premiere in 2011.
STEP 1: Follow your #NewVoiceCoach @pharrell NOW.
— The Voice (@NBCTheVoice) March 31, 2014When we say that @pharrell is the #NewVoiceCoach, the only appropriate response is "YA$$$."
— The Voice (@NBCTheVoice) March 31, 2014.@Pharrell You got us doing our "Happy" dance. #NextVoiceCoach
— The Voice (@NBCTheVoice) March 31, 2014
