Sofronio Vasquez makes history as the first Asian and Filipino winner of the hit singing competition, The Voice USA Season 26.
As we celebrate Sofronio’s win, let’s take a walk down memory lane to look back on his humble beginnings to becoming the reigning champion of The Voice USA.
Life in the Philippines
Photo from Sofronio Vasquez
Sofronio was born in 1992 and raised in Misamis Occidental, Northern Mindanao in the Philippines. Despite being deprived of a comfortable lifestyle, Sofronio looks back on his childhood with a smile.
In an interview, Sofronio mentioned how music brought his family together. His childhood was mostly filled with memories of listening to his loved ones belt out songs on karaoke machines.
Even though he has been an avid music lover since childhood, Sofronio was leaning more on pursuing a career in dentistry. But after the sudden passing of his father, who was also his first “singing coach,” his love for music once again reignited and inspired him to pursue his dreams.
To honor the legacy of his late father and their shared love for music, he decided to put his talent to the test by joining singing competitions to show the world his utmost passion.
Journey to the Top
With grit and determination to prove himself, Sofronio tried his luck by joining The Voice Philippines. Unfortunately, he did not earn a single chair turn from the coaches during the blind audition.
Still, that disappointment did not stop him from reaching for his dreams. He took another leap of faith and made his first TV appearance on “Tawag ng Tanghalan,” a segment in the hit noontime show in the Philippines, It’s Showtime. In February 2016, he won the hearts of judges with his swooning rendition of “The Last Time” by Eric Benet, making him the defending champion of that day.
Throughout the course of the competition, Sofronio showcased the impressive range of his vocals as he jumped from different musical genres– jazz, pop and RnB—for each of his performances. Although he didn’t succeed in taking home the grand prize, Sofronio reached the semifinals and finished strong in third place.
From Zero to Four Chair-turner
Now living in Utica, New York, Sofronio continued his passion for music outside the confines of his motherland. This time, he joined the hit American singing show, The Voice USA. For the blind audition, Sofronio performed Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Goin’ Down,” which earned him an impressive four-chair turner and standing ovation from all the judges.
Reba McEntire, American country singer and judge for the season, was quick to say “I could not hit my button fast enough,” when the performance was over. “Your voice is like butter. It’s so easy on the ears. But your soulfulness touched my heart. You’ve got the whole package.” Another judge, singer-songwriter Gwen Stefani, was also impressed and even compared his rendition to a “Grammy performance.”
Hip-hop legend, Snoop Dogg also took his chance and tried to win him over with his record-breaking accomplishments. But in the end, Sofronio chose Michael Bublé—whose style is closer to his—to be his mentor. “I’ve been watching the show since season 1, and now from the Philippines, I am here, and I will pick Michael,” Sofronio said.
Through his captivating vocals and outstanding performances, Sofronio became the first Filipino singer to make it to the final leg of the competition. Joined by other finalists—Jeremy Beloate, with his emotional and deeply moving vocals; Danny Joseph, known for his soulful and raspy voice; Sydney Sterlace, with her mature and proficient vocal range; and Shye’s unique tone and perfect pitch—Sofronio held his own and was victorious, taking home the crown and making history, not only as the first Filipino, but also the first Asian to win the grand prize.
Greatness Knows No Boundaries
Photo from Sofronio Vasquez
Sofronio’s historic win is a proud moment for every Asian, Filipino, and anyone who continuously works towards their dreams. His win is a testament that your dreams are never out of your reach—it may seem big and too impossible to achieve but with hard work and passion you are capable of making it happen.
Who would’ve thought that from his simple provincial life in the Philippines, Sofronio is now a history maker celebrated by the whole world.
Congratulations Sofronio! May your talent and dedication continuously inspire us all!