March 24, 2015
Screenshot /The Voice via YouTube
Philly street performer Anthony Riley sang James Brown’s “I Got You (I Feel Good)” for his blind audition on NBC's "The Voice."
Philadelphia street performer Anthony Riley abruptly left the NBC music competition television show "The
Voice," celebrity coach Pharrell Williams announced on Monday's episode.
Riley had been a fan and judge favorite, earning the fastest four-chair turn in the show's history and praise from the music icons for his first on-air performance of James Brown’s “I Got You (I Feel Good).”
The exact reason for his sudden departure is unknown aside from the “personal reasons,” stated by Williams.
According to Philly.com, the local soul singer has been known for performing on the streets of Philly, as well as in Reading Terminal Market.
In 2007, he was also arrested and charged with disorderly conduct for singing in Rittenhouse Square, however, the charges were dismissed, and he was later awarded $27,500 in a lawsuit.
Twitter fans shared their assumptions for his departure following the announcement, including reluctance to compete against fellow crowd favorite and Pittsburgh native Mia Z.
Anthony Riley off #TheVoice because he didn't want to be paired with Mia Z? Somebody scared of a lil competition? #bye #youdontdeserveit
— Li (@liannacohen) March 24, 2015
Riley has not commented.
Read more on Philly.com.
