In a year filled with exceptional talent from the border region, one artist’s voice rose above the rest. Teo Randel, whose journey from Tijuana to the iconic stage of The Voice captivated audiences, has been recognized as the 2025 Artist of the Year by San Diego Red.
Teo Randel in The Voice
His path to recognition was paved on the national television competition, where he surprised many. Performing Luis Miguel’s classic “Historia de un Amor” in his blind audition, Randel’s rich, resonant tone prompted a swift and rare four-chair turn from judges Reba McEntire, Snoop Dogg, Niall Horan, and Michael Bublé.
Choosing Bublé as his coach, Randel advanced triumphantly through The Battles with a powerful duet of Lady Gaga’s and Bruno Mars’ “Die With a Smile” with his partner Elías Gómez.
He then performed Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life,” showcasing a rock edge that further impressed the panel. While his journey on the show ended in the Knockouts, Randel reframes it not as an end, but a launchpad.
“I took away something much better: a stronger, braver version of myself. An artist ready to conquer the world,” Randel reflected. “’The Voice’ opened important doors. What comes next will be even bigger.”
He also expressed profound gratitude to his coach, Michael Bublé, for his belief, and to the community of artists and producers who supported him.
Teo’s History with Music
Born in Orange County but raised from age seven in Tijuana, Randel embodies a binational identity as he considers himself 100% Mexican and credits his upbringing for his musical foundation.
When he was 7, he sang in a local church choir with his early influences being the legendary voices of Latin balladry, Rocío Dúrcal and Rocío Jurado, heard throughout his home. His artistic spark ignited at 12 when his sister taught him piano, unlocking new dimensions in his voice and musicality.
An Artist in Full Bloom
Though known for his ballads, the artist revealed in an exclusive interview with San Diego Red that the competition pushed him far beyond his comfort zone. “It’s a contest where the most versatile voice wins,” he explained, highlighting how the format showcases the depth of every participant’s talent.
His artistic reach extends even further. While competing on the show, Teo also performed at Los Angeles’s famed “Le Chansona” club. He is also an accomplished photographer and actively manages his career through digital marketing.
Embracing the holiday spirit, he chose to release his own festive single, “Christmas Now”, which quickly became a hit.
For Ramdel, this is only the beginning. Poised to captivate both national and international listeners, his journey serves as a powerful reminder: authentic, compelling talent is often closer than we think.
