From Turning Heads to Turning Chairs

Iris Herrera-Photo by: Danny Ventrella/NBC

Newaygo's Iris Herrera explodes on the national scene at The Voice

By Ken DeLaat

Our first introduction to Iris Herrera was a few years back when the Varsity basketballer turned heads during her sparkling rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. 
Now it seems she is turning chairs as well. During blind judging 3 judges from The Voice turned and delivered the “I Want You” sign indicating their desire to have her join their team and receive their coaching. With John Legend, Michael Buble’ and Kelsea Ballerini as her options Iris chose  Country/Pop  singer/songwriter Ballerini, a 5 time Grammy nominee and Grand Old Opry member. 
We were able to catch up with a very busy Iris following her stunning performance on The Voice. 

You tried out for The Voice before. What was different this time?
Iris: Yes I auditioned in season 26 performing a Stevie Nicks song (Gypsy) and I didn’t get any chairs but I received some wonderful feedback and was encouraged to come back. I came home and worked on my skills just as an athlete might do, putting more time and effort into it. I gigged around town continued to practice and came back with a lot more confidence

You did a version of "You Are My Sunshine” , an old tune covered numerous times. Why that song?
I worked with the Voice music team and decided to try something outside of my comfort zone and not just play it safe. I knew the song would connect and resonate with the audience and it allowed me to make it my own using my vocal range.

What does it mean being on Team Kelsea?
Holy cow! She is a phenomenal artist and songwriter. I was hoping for one chair because it only takes one but I never prepared for getting 3 from Kelsea, John Legend and Michael Buble. Kelsea felt like someone I could connect with the most. She gave off this kind,  safe vibe and really pulled at my heartstrings. Working with her is just so cool.

What has been the biggest challenge?
Truthfully, coming from a small town. For the first time in  my life I’ve been immersed with people with vast experience and musical knowledge and it was intimidating.. The hardest was adjusting and the biggest battle was convincing myself I was good enough to be here. It helps that The Voice creates a true family dynamic with the artists all encouraging each other. Just to be working on a professional stage as a professional singer was great.

What has been the most surprising?
My ability to overcome those feelings I had. I didn’t know how insecure I could be before this. I had to be brave and believe in my ability so instead of sinking I needed to swim. 
Also how welcoming The Voice people are. This can be pretty fast paced and The Voice does a great job of encouraging, making you feel safe and convincing that you belong here. The people here  are phenomenal especially for younger artists just embarking on their career.

When you were in high school you did the Anthem a few times including once, as I recall, in your basketball uniform. You also ran track and were involved in the Fremont Area Community Foundations Youth Advisory Committee (YAC), correct?
Yes. For four years. I loved being part of YAC. I joined as a Freshman and served as President when I was a senior. Being part of that group brought me such joy and I love the Foundation.

I believe you also performed at the first Pride Festival in Newaygo.
Yes, I loved being part of helping to spread awareness and love in my community and it was great to be a part of it.

You recently performed the Anthem at a couple of local basketball games.
Yes. One was for the schools’ Snowcoming and I was honored to be asked. I also sat in with Backwoods Express at the Driftwood on Saturday. They are playing this coming weekend at the Shamrock in White Cloud and you know, there just might be someone making an appearance with them again.

Beyond the help you get from The Voice, who do you go to for support?
My sweet Mom, all my immediate family and my aunt. When I’m  in California in my hotel room practicing I call my Mom. She keeps me grounded and I can always count on her to be there for me.

Anything to add?
Just a shout out to my community who really show up for me and are there for me. I just want all the little Iris’s out there to dream big. To be brave and not afraid to go for what you want.
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