Philly street performer abruptly leaves ‘The Voice’

Anthony Riley's reason for departure is ‘personal'

Philly street performer Anthony Riley sang James Brown’s “I Got You (I Feel Good)” for his blind audition on NBC's "The Voice."
Screenshot /The Voice via YouTube

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 dismissedand 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. 

Riley has not commented. 

Read more on Philly.com.