The new season of The Voice (NBC) premiered with a show-stopping moment, courtesy of Teo Ramdel, a contestant from Tijuana who delivered a flawless audition that turned all four judges’ chairs. His passionate performance of Luis Miguel’s classic “Historia de un Amor” not only won over the panel but also became a vibrant celebration of his Mexican heritage.
Reba McEntire, Snoop Dogg, Niall Horan, and Michael Bublé looked on in surprise as Ramdel filled the studio with a vocal tone eerily reminiscent of the iconic “Sol de México” himself. He effortlessly reached soaring high notes, compelling each judge to spin their chair in approval. His confident stage presence and the revelation of his Tijuana roots were met with visible delight from the coaches.
In an exclusive interview with San Diego Red, Ramdel reflected on his experience on NBC’s reality talent show.
“I still can’t believe it, to be honest. It was like living a dream. Getting there was a long and difficult process, especially considering the incredible talent on The Voice. To be there representing Tijuana and Mexico is a true privilege,” he said.
His strategic song choice was key to his success.
“I chose ‘Historia de un Amor’ to share a piece of Mexican and Latin culture on this massive platform. Luis Miguel is a major influence as well as Juan Gabriel, Cristian Castro, or José José.”
His musical journey began at age seven in a Tijuana church after his family moved from California. Raised by a single mother who was also a singer, Ramdel was immersed in Latin ballads and boleros, which became the foundation of his artistic expression.
“I remember my mom playing Rocío Jurado and Rocío Dúrcal, and I realized I could sing along! At 12 years old, my sister taught me to play the piano, allowing me to explore new vocal ranges and develop my ear. I reached a point where I started exploring different ranges and notes.”
Success is a coin toss combining luck, talent, opportunity, and perseverance, and Teo has the whole package, as he not only has a notable presence but is also a true natural entertainer.
For Ramdel, the audition was about more than just victory. He approached the stage with a winner’s mindset, focused solely on giving his best performance.
“I went out there to sing my heart out. You never know if the judges will turn, because the competition is fierce.”
His good voice, stage presence, and unique personality and his complete command of the stage, so natural that Reba McEntire asked if he could dance, created a powerful connection with the audience.
“People tell me, ‘You give me goosebumps,’ or ‘You make me cry,’” he said.
The judges’ pleas to join their teams followed, with Michael Bublé making a persuasive case in Spanish. In the end, Ramdel chose the Canadian crooner, fulfilling a pre-show goal.
“Michael Bublé is a great inspiration for me. I auditioned in 2024 and since then I already knew I wanted to be in his team. I am drawn to his music and his ability to perform, so I wanted to learn more from him.”
He credits The Voice with pushing him artistically.
“This experience has expanded my horizons and forced me out of my comfort zone. As a balladeer, the show challenges you to reach a new professional level. With the right guidance, you can get there, and Michael provides incredible support to his team.”
Though born in Orange County, California, Ramdel proudly identifies as “100% Mexican,” a sentiment rooted in his upbringing in the vibrant border city of Tijuana.
“What I love about Tijuana is its color and rich culture. It feels like a microcosm of all Mexico: a city where dreams are born for so many who come from all these places. And the food! The tacos, carnes en su jugo, chiles rellenos, and sopes are among my favorites.”
When not preparing for the next round of the competition, Ramdel performs four nights a week at the Le Chansona club in Los Angeles. His other passions include photography, social media marketing, travel, and writing his own original music.
Follow Ramdel’s journey on The Voice, which airs Mondays and Tuesdays on NBC. Episodes are available for streaming the following day on Peacock.
