D.Smooth’s rendition of Sheeran’s “Perfect” not only impressed Clarkson but also caught the attention of Horan, who turned around at the last minute to secure him on his team.
“D.Smooth, I waited because I understand how challenging that song is to sing. There’s no room for breath,” Horan explained his eleventh-hour decision. “You flawlessly carried the song, continually elevating it to new heights. Delicate at the start, then you soared into an impressive crescendo.”
Ultimately, D.Smooth chose to join Clarkson’s team. However, during the Battle Rounds, he faced off against ALI, a deaf singer who garnered turns from both Clarkson and Chance. Despite a tough decision, Clarkson opted for ALI.
In a twist typical of the show, Chance attempted to recruit D.Smooth after his loss, but Clarkson intervened by using her “Playoffs Pass,” ensuring D.Smooth’s direct advancement to the Playoffs round.
“I feel a bit guilty. You might want to work with him, but I just couldn’t let you go, man. I believe in you. You have the potential to make it to the finale,” Clarkson reassured D.Smooth.
Overjoyed by receiving Clarkson’s “Playoffs Pass,” D.Smooth took to Facebook to express his gratitude.
“Man, when I tell y’all God is so good!! This whole week I just had a feeling everything was gonna be good. Had a sense of calmness the whole time. Me and ALI (my battle partner) even prayed together before we hit the stage. And boy, I tell you, he made room for both of us!!”