Just weeks after being crowned the champion of The Voice Season 28 on December 16, 2025, Aiden Ross has launched his post-show career with a stunning new single that has fans and critics alike reaching for the tissues. The 20-year-old Texas A&M sophomore released “Love Her Anyway” on January 2, 2026—a heartfelt ballad that showcases the hypnotic emotional depth that propelled him to victory under coach Niall Horan. Horan, now undefeated with three consecutive wins, quickly showed his pride by commenting “So good 👏” on Ross’s Instagram post, a gesture that has fans buzzing about the mentor-mentee bond.
From the very first crystalline note in the accompanying acoustic video, Ross pours so much raw emotion into his voice that the sound feels hypnotic, drawing listeners into a vulnerable narrative of love’s uncertainties and unwavering commitment. “Love Her Anyway” explores the fears of entering a new relationship—what might go wrong, the unknowns ahead—but ultimately affirms that profound love overrides it all. Ross’s smooth, soulful tenor, infused with a slight Texas twang, transforms the track into an intimate confession, blending pop-soul sensibilities with the heartfelt storytelling that made him a standout on the show.
Ross, a College Station native studying industrial distribution engineering, first captured national attention as the premiere’s opening act. His blind audition rendition of Adele’s “Love in the Dark” earned an instant four-chair turn from coaches Niall Horan, Reba McEntire, Snoop Dogg, and Michael Bublé—the fastest in Season 28 history. Choosing Horan, Ross cited the Irish star’s songwriting style as aligning perfectly with his aspirations. “Niall writes and makes music that is most similar to the type of artist that I aspire to be,” he shared in interviews. Their connection proved prophetic: Ross’s journey culminated in finale performances of JVKE’s “Golden Hour,” ABBA’s “The Winner Takes It All” (closing the show in the coveted pimp spot), and a holiday duet of Wham!’s “Last Christmas” with Season 23 winner Gina Miles.
Winning the title—complete with a Universal Music Group recording contract and reported $100,000 prize—marked a full-circle moment for Ross, a lifelong Voice fan since age 6. “I’m at a loss for words,” he posted on Instagram after the finale. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart… I’ve grown so much as an individual and an artist.” Horan, reflecting on his third straight victory (following Seasons 23 and 24), told PEOPLE he saw star potential in Ross from day one: “Win or lose, he had an exciting future ahead.”
The rapid release of “Love Her Anyway” underscores Ross’s determination to capitalize on his momentum. Pre-win, he teased original music in interviews, revealing plans to balance school (part-time online classes) with his burgeoning career. His pre-Voice debut single “Everything and More” (released September 2025) introduced his “heartfelt pop soul sound,” garnering streams and setting the stage for this post-victory leap. The new track, produced with Universal’s support, features stripped-back acoustics in the promo video—Ross alone with his guitar, eyes closed, voice soaring—evoking the raw authenticity that won over America.
Fans have flooded social media with praise, calling it “hypnotic” and “tear-jerking from the first listen.” Viral clips of the acoustic performance have millions of views, with comments like “Niall would be so proud—this is pure emotion” and “Aiden’s voice pulls you in and doesn’t let go.” The song’s themes resonate deeply, mirroring Ross’s own journey: overcoming doubts (he nearly quit music in high school after a Mamma Mia-inspired epiphany) to embrace his calling. “I never want to forget that feeling like I had lost everything,” he told Lyndsanity, crediting the win with reaffirming his path.
Horan’s influence shines through. The former One Direction member’s mentorship emphasized enjoying the process, a lesson Ross carries forward. Their “big brother/little brother” dynamic—Horan relating from his own X Factor days—fostered growth, with Ross crediting him for teaching “to love what I’m doing and be glad I’m doing it.” Horan’s undefeated streak (a Voice first) cements his coaching legacy, and his quick endorsement of the single signals ongoing support.
As 2026 unfolds, Ross’s trajectory looks bright. He’s teased collaborations with writer friends and a potential Lizzy McAlpine duet, while committing to finishing his degree. Streaming platforms report strong early numbers for “Love Her Anyway,” positioning it for chart climbs. Live performances loom, possibly tying into Universal promotions or tours.
In an era of instant fame, Ross stands out for his grounded humility—balancing engineering studies, a cappella (he’s in Texas A&M’s Hardcore Dynamics), and now stardom. His family farm roots and guitar lessons from dad ground him, while the Voice platform amplifies his gift.
“Love Her Anyway” isn’t just a debut—it’s a statement. Aiden Ross has arrived, voice hypnotic and heart wide open, ready to make Niall Horan—and fans worldwide—even prouder. This is just the beginning.
