Akron‑born Morgan Lett is turning heads on a national stage. The 27‑year‑old vocalist appeared on NBC’s The Voice in the episode that aired Sept. 23, delivering a powerful performance of Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Goin’ Down.” Her soulful delivery caught the ear of all four celebrity judges, and Queen Latifah pressed her button within seconds, securing Lett a spot on the former’s team.
From church choirs to national TV
Lett’s musical journey began in the pews of Greater Holy Trinity Church of God in Christ on Sherbondy Hill, where she sang as a child. She later performed at clubs and festivals in Atlanta and even appeared on NPR’s Tiny Desk with Sasha Keable. Yet she says nothing compares to the pressure of a blind audition on a live‑television stage.
“When I got on that stage, I was breathing harder than I’ve ever breathed in my life,” Lett recalled. “I saw those names on the back of those chairs, and I don’t know what happened, but breathing went out the window.”
Judges’ reactions
Queen Latifah praised Lett’s originality, saying, “I like some of the choices you made with those notes. You went places I was not expecting. You did it your way, which tells me you can sing all kinds of songs your way.” Riley Green also turned his chair, but Lett chose to join Queen Latifah’s team, citing the legendary rapper‑actress as a lifelong role model.
Roots in East Akron
Lett grew up in East Akron, attending Hatton Community Learning Center and later Miller South School for the Visual and Performing Arts. After her family moved to Atlanta following eighth grade, she continued to nurture her talent. She comes from a musical family; one uncle is opera star Lawrence Brownlee, and another sings with the gospel group Half Mile Home.
Although church music shaped her early years, Lett admits she “sneaked some R&B music” into her playlists, naming Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan and Earth, Wind & Fire among her favorites.
Education and personal drive
After high school, Lett enrolled at Georgia State University, studying music technology and voice. In 2020 she paused her studies after the death of her sister Taylor, who lived with cerebral palsy. “Losing her was a reminder I can’t just sit around and do nothing,” Lett said. “That definitely put an engine in me to take it seriously.” She later returned to complete her degree, graduating in May, and immediately headed to Los Angeles to audition for The Voice.
Future plans
While the next battle round for Lett’s team remains unannounced, she promises viewers “something amazing.” Her long‑term goal is clear: “I’m looking to achieve Grammys, nominations, all the things. I’m the next Beyoncé,” she laughed.
In addition to the TV exposure, Lett released a new single, “Friendzone,” last month and is working on her debut EP, “Mozaic,” a project that blends the many genres that have shaped her sound.
Local pride
Akron residents have rallied behind Lett’s success, seeing her as a testament to the city’s talent pool and a source of inspiration for young performers. Her story underscores the importance of community support, faith‑based encouragement, and family dedication in nurturing artistic dreams.
“I feel like I’m somebody who was called to do this,” Lett said. “I want people to feel something when they hear me.”
The Voice airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on NBC.
Original reporting: Signal Akron — read the source article.
