In the electrifying world of talent competitions, few moments capture the essence of raw potential and unexpected twists quite like a blind audition on The Voice. On the premiere night of Season 28, which aired on September 22, 2025, viewers were treated to a performance that not only turned heads but spun all four iconic red chairs. Enter DEK of Hearts, a Nashville-based country trio whose harmonious rendition of Jo Dee Messina’s “Heads Carolina, Tails California” left coaches and audiences alike in awe. Comprising Dylan, Emily, and Kollin—whose initials form the group’s catchy moniker—DEK of Hearts didn’t just secure a spot on the show; they delivered what many are calling one of the most memorable auditions in recent history.
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The Voice has long been a staple of American television, blending high-stakes competition with heartfelt storytelling. Now in its 28th season, the show features a refreshed panel of coaches: rap legend Snoop Dogg, country queen Reba McEntire, pop sensation Niall Horan, and crooner Michael Bublé. This diverse lineup promises a mix of genres and perspectives, but it’s the blind auditions that set the stage for the drama. Coaches listen with their backs turned, judging solely on vocal talent, and a four-chair turn is the ultimate validation—a rare feat that signals extraordinary promise.
DEK of Hearts stepped onto that stage with the weight of their dreams and a shared passion for music. Hailing from Nashville, the heart of country music, the trio embodies the spirit of collaboration that defines the genre. Dylan, Emily, and Kollin have been honing their craft together for years, blending tight harmonies with infectious energy. Their choice of “Heads Carolina, Tails California”—a 1996 hit that captures the fun, free-spirited side of country— was a strategic nod to their roots while showcasing their modern twist. As the first notes filled the studio, it was clear this wasn’t just another audition; it was a statement.
The performance unfolded with precision and flair. Emily’s powerful lead vocals cut through the air, supported by Dylan’s and Kollin’s seamless backups. The trio’s chemistry was palpable, even without visual cues for the coaches. They nailed the rhythmic hits, infusing the song with sharp dynamics and a natural blend that felt effortless. Reba McEntire, a country icon herself, was the first to turn her chair, drawn in by the familiar twang and undeniable talent. But the real magic happened as the others followed suit. Michael Bublé, known for his smooth style, spun around next, followed by Snoop Dogg, who couldn’t contain his enthusiasm. Finally, Niall Horan completed the quartet, making it a unanimous four-chair turn.
Snoop Dogg’s reaction was pure gold. Rising from his seat, he exclaimed, “I couldn’t even sit down. I wanted to hee-haw and gee-jaw. Y’all gave me the country holy ghost.” His words highlighted the universal appeal of DEK of Hearts’ sound, transcending genres and pulling in even a hip-hop heavyweight. Reba, beaming with pride for her fellow country artists, praised their harmonies and stage presence. Niall Horan noted the excitement in their delivery, while Michael Bublé appreciated the polish and showmanship. The coaches’ pitches were intense, each vying to mentor the trio through the competition’s battles, knockouts, and live shows.
What followed, however, was the twist that sent shockwaves through the The Voice community. As a country trio performing a classic country track, DEK of Hearts seemed destined for Team Reba. McEntire, with her decades of experience in the industry, appeared to be the perfect fit. She even rallied the audience, having them wave fans emblazoned with her face in a playful bid to sway the group. Snoop emphasized his understanding of music and musicianship, while Bublé highlighted his ability to nurture unique voices. Niall, the two-time winning coach from previous seasons, played his “I’ve won twice” card, underscoring his track record of success.
The trio huddled briefly, weighing their options. Emily spoke for the group: “We’re a country trio, but we’re also country pop, and it would mean the world to us…” After a dramatic countdown, they announced, “Team Niall!” The studio erupted in surprise. Reba, ever the performer, dramatically fake-fainted on the floor, eliciting laughs from everyone. Niall himself admitted, “Getting DEK of Hearts on Team Niall might be one of the biggest shocks in Voice history. If you beat Reba McEntire to a country music artist, you’re doing something right.” Reba, gracious in defeat, marveled at Niall’s growing dominance: “He won The Voice two years in a row, and now he’s the king of the 4-chair turn?”
This choice underscores a broader trend in The Voice: artists are increasingly prioritizing growth and versatility over genre loyalty. DEK of Hearts’ decision to go with Horan, a pop artist with a knack for blending styles, suggests they see themselves evolving beyond traditional country boundaries. Their self-description as “country pop” hints at influences from artists like Taylor Swift or Maren Morris, who have successfully bridged the gap between Nashville and mainstream charts. By aligning with Niall, known for his work with One Direction and solo hits like “Slow Hands,” the trio positions themselves for a fresh take on their sound, potentially incorporating pop elements that could broaden their appeal.
But who exactly are DEK of Hearts? The trio’s backstory adds depth to their breakout moment. Dylan, Emily, and Kollin met in Nashville’s vibrant music scene, where open mics and songwriter nights are the breeding ground for stars. Dylan brings a gritty edge with his guitar skills and songwriting prowess, often drawing from personal experiences of small-town life. Emily, the vocal powerhouse, has a background in theater and performance, which shines through in her commanding stage presence. Kollin rounds out the group with his rhythmic sensibilities and harmonies that glue everything together. Together, they’ve released independent tracks and performed at local venues, building a grassroots following through social media and live gigs.
Their journey to The Voice wasn’t without hurdles. Like many aspiring artists, they’ve faced the grind of the music industry—endless auditions, rejections, and the challenge of standing out in a crowded field. Yet, their bond as a trio has been their strength. In interviews leading up to the show, they’ve spoken about the importance of family and perseverance. “Music is our way of connecting with people,” Emily has said. “We want our songs to make folks feel seen and heard.” This authenticity resonated during their audition, where their performance felt more like a heartfelt conversation than a polished act.
The significance of their four-chair turn cannot be overstated. In The Voice‘s history, groups have occasionally made waves—think of trios like Girl Named Tom, who won Season 21 under Kelly Clarkson. But DEK of Hearts’ achievement stands out for its immediacy and the element of surprise. Four-chair turns are reserved for the cream of the crop, often leading to deep runs in the competition. Past recipients, like Season 27 winner Adam David, have gone on to sign deals and release music. For DEK of Hearts, this could be the launchpad to stardom.
As Season 28 progresses, all eyes will be on Team Niall and how DEK of Hearts fares. The battles ahead will test their harmonies against solo artists, requiring them to adapt and innovate. Will they stick to country roots or experiment with pop infusions? Niall’s coaching style, which emphasizes emotional connection and stagecraft, could elevate their game. Meanwhile, the trio’s choice has sparked debates among fans: Was it a smart move to snub Reba, or a risky gamble?
Beyond the competition, DEK of Hearts represents the evolving landscape of country music. In an era where genres blur—think collaborations like Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter or Post Malone’s forays into country—the trio is poised to ride the wave. Their sound, a mix of classic twang and contemporary polish, appeals to a wide audience. Social media is already buzzing with clips of their audition, garnering thousands of views and shares. Fans praise their energy, with one commenter noting, “This trio is dominating—best performance of the night!”
Looking ahead, DEK of Hearts has the potential to become household names. Whether they win the season or not, their The Voice appearance has opened doors. Expect new music, tours, and perhaps even a record deal. In Nashville, where dreams are chased daily, they’ve proven that harmony, hard work, and a bit of boldness can turn the tide.
In a show full of surprises, DEK of Hearts delivered the ultimate plot twist. Their four-chair turn wasn’t just about talent; it was about redefining expectations. As they embark on this journey with Niall Horan, one thing is certain: the hearts of country music fans—and beyond—have been won. Congratulations to DEK of Hearts; the stage is yours.
