By james art 
Birmingham is no stranger to TV talent show stardom — with “American Idol” winners, “Dancing with the Stars” contestants and more — but the Magic City’s latest star in the making is Lauren-Michael Sellers, who recently auditioned for The Voice.
Sellers, a Birmingham native who has had a strong presence on the local music scene for many years, impressed all four judges on “The Voice” enough for each of them to woo her for their respective teams.
Lauren-Michael Sellers on The Voice
Sellers performed on Season 26, Episode 5 (for those of you who missed it live and want to stream it) in front of judges Michael Bublé, Reba McEntire, Gwen Stefani and Snoop Dogg.
Her song “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” was immediately recognized by Stephanie on the first note and Stephanie turned her chair (meaning the judge wants this contestant on her team). Buble followed and McEntire soon turned as well. Snoop was the last to turn around, but said later that it was because he was so into the song at the time.
The song, a traditional Christian tune, prompted Snoop Dogg to say, “I feel like God was in this room here.”
When faced with the decision of choosing a judge to coach, Sellers ultimately chose McEntire.
Here’s Sellers’ pitch:
Sellers are no strangers to winning contests
Sellers has been part of the Birmingham music scene for some time. In fact, in 2011, Birmingham Mountain Radio held an open mic competition at the now-defunct Barking Kudu bar in Lakeview, in an “American Idol” style competition.
Dozens of local musicians entered, with Sellers emerging victorious. The prize was the opportunity to record with renowned producer Lester Nuby at Ol’ Elegante Studios in Birmingham.
Nuby, who has decades of music production experience, said Sellers blew him away with her talent.
“Lauren-Michael has more raw, natural talent than any vocalist I’ve worked with before. I had to ‘up my game’ to keep up with her.”
Lester Nubby, co-founder of Ol’ Elegante Studios
Sellers moves on to the next round of “The Voice,” where she will be paired with another member of McIntyre’s team for a duet.
Watch “The Voice” on NBC.
For all the latest things happening here in the Magic City, subscribe to our FREE newsletter!