Culture

Here Are All of ‘American Idol’ Star Willie Spence’s Performances

Willie Spence marked second place during his run on the 2021 season of American Idol. Still, he was known as one of the most notable singers to come out of the show with powerhouse covers from artists that include Rihanna, Beyonce, Adele, Coldplay and more.

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Unfortunately, the 23-year-old lost his life in a car accident while driving back to Atlanta from Tennessee on Tuesday (Oct. 12). He reportedly crashed into a tractor-trailer parked on the side of the road, TMZ reported. However, it was local news site Douglas Now that was first to report the news about the crash.

The news was also shared by his fellow Idol alum Katharine McPhee-Foster, who took to her Instagram story on Tuesday (Oct. 11) to share her condolences. “Only 23 years old. Life is so unfair, and nothing is ever promised,” she wrote. “God rest your soul Willie. It was a pleasure to sing with you and to know you.”

McPhee and Spence rocked the Idol house during a duet of Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli’s “The Prayer” during season 19.

Additionally, Idol paid tribute to Spence by posting a video featuring the singer’s audition with the message: “We are devastated about the passing of our beloved American Idol family member, Willie Spence. He was a true talent who lit up every room he entered and will be deeply missed. We send our condolences to his loved ones.”

In honor of Spence’s life and legacy, Billboard put together a list of his rocking performances during his time on Idol. Check them out below.

“Diamonds,” Rihanna

“Stay,” Rihanna ft. Mikky Ekko

“Glory,” Common & John Legend

“Stand Up,” Harriet

“I Was Here,” Beyoncé

“Set Fire To The Rain,” Adele

“Stand Up,” Cynthia Ervio

“Wind Beneath My Wings,” Bette Midler

“A Change Is Gonna Come,” Sam Cooke

“Circle of Life,” The Lion King

“Diamonds,” Rihanna

“Rather Be,” Clean Bandit & Jess Glynne

“Yellow,” Coldplay

“What They’ll Say About Us,” FINNEAS

“Never Be Alone,” Willie Spence

“You Are The Reason,” Leona Lewis & Calum Scott

“Georgia on My Mind,” Ray Charles

“You Are So Beautiful,” Joe Cocker

Usher, Quinta Brunson & Tems Among Honorees at EBONY Power 100 Gala

EBONY’s Power 100 Gala, a night of Black excellence, released its list of 100 honorees on Wednesday (Oct. 12). The gala is set to be hosted by Emmy-nominated comedian Amber Ruffin and will include names like Emmy award-winning Quinta Brunson, Usher, and TikTok influencer Khaby Lame.

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The annual gala is dedicated to honoring Black trailblazers in various professions and crafts such as business, entertainment, and science and technology. The formal event’s 10 categories range from Entertainment Powerhouses to Community Creators. In addition to announcing its return, executives shared their reimagined commitment to “Moving Black Forward.”

“The EBONY Power 100 Gala is one of our tentpole events,” said Eden Bridgeman Sklenar, EBONY Media Group chief executive officer in a release. “This year’s list represents the best and brightest across fields, and we are proud to celebrate and salute each of our honorees who we recognize as influential members of the community based on their impactful contributions to the culture and society at large.”

In addition to Usher and Brunson, Tems and H.E.R. also graced the list of Entertainment Powerhouses. Makeup mogul and YouTuber Jackie Aina, rapper Saucy Santana, and comedian Elsa Majimbo also join Lame in the influencer category. 

This year’s Dynamic Duo slot features both romantic and platonic power couples like Russell Wilson and Ciara, Idris and Sabrina Elba, and the City Girls. In addition to hosting, Ruffin is a Media Mavens honoree this year.

The Gala will take place in Los Angeles at the Milk Studios on Oct. 29., and is to be presented by Coke Zero Sugar.

Jonathan Groff Says Lea Michele ‘Was New York to Me’ in Touching Tribute

Actor Jonathan Groff shared a touching tribute to his pal and former Spring Awakening co-star Lea Michele — and New York through her eyes — in a self-penned essay published by Variety on Wednesday (Oct. 12).

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The actress, known most notably for her role as Rachel Berry in Glee, is back in the Big Apple 13 years after her debut in Les Misérables to make her return to Broadway as Fanny Brice in Funny Girl. “By bringing big business back to Broadway, Lea isn’t just making audiences happy, she’s helping support the restaurants and hotels that thrive when Broadway draws a huge crowd,” wrote Groff. “By welcoming her back to Broadway, New York is giving Lea the power to reconnect with her truest self. The power of New York finally brought her home.”

Funny Girl has been an economic powerhouse, making $1.6 million in Michele’s first box office week ending Sept. 11. The stunning success is no surprise for Groff, who met Michele in 2005 and knew her primarily as a Broadway star. He fondly painted a picture of his friend in the essay that is authentically New York, complete with one of her grandfathers being involved in the mob. “Lea was New York to me. After our time together in Spring Awakening, Lea ascended to fame with the success of Glee, and left the city,” Groff recounted.

While Groff speaks fondly of Michele’s return to the theater main stage, not everyone is rushing to see her Funny Girl performance. Michele’s Glee co-star, Chris Colfer refused an invite to see her performance, he said in an interview with Sirius XM, referencing rumors of mean-girl behavior displayed by Michele on the Glee set. “My day suddenly just got so full,” Colfer said. “No, I can be triggered at home.”

Here Are the 2022 MLB Playoffs’ Most Popular Walk-Up Song Artists, From Bad Bunny to Drake

It’s a shame Cleveland Guardians’ rookie outfielder Oscar Gonzalez doesn’t get to pick the walk-up music for every Major League Baseball player — his delightful choice is the theme song from SpongeBob SquarePants. Far more widespread in stadiums throughout the four Division Series, which begin Tuesday (Oct. 11), is superstar rapper Bad Bunny, who, according to data the MLB provided for the remaining eight playoff teams, soundtracks eight players’ trips to the plate (including the Atlanta Braves’ Ronald Acuna Jr. and Eddie Rosario, who each use two different Bad Bunny tracks).

Billboard crunched the numbers to highlight the most popular walk-up music stars for the eight remaining playoff teams. Given the number of Latino players in baseball, Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, Elvis Crespo, Anuel AA and Los Hermanos Rosario are especially popular, and just about everybody gets a rise out of hip-hop.

Outside the below list, there are plenty of SpongeBob-type outliers: Houston Astros outfielder Jake Meyers’ use of Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight”; not one but two uses of Ted Nugent’s “Stranglehold”; Braves third baseman Austin Riley’s adaptation of Stone Cold Steve Austin’s classic wrestling intro; Garrett Stubbs of the Philadelphia Phillies going way back to Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life”; and Sean Manaea of the Padres going way soft with Grover Washington Jr.’s “Just the Two of Us.” Reliever Edwin Diaz’s team, the New York Mets, may be out, but Timmy Trumpet’s “Narco” carries on, for the Braves’ William Contreras and others.

Exclusive to Billboard, the MLB shared walk-up songs for nearly all 26 players on each team’s playoff roster, or about 200 overall (some of whom walk out to multiple songs).

From Adidas to Reebok, These Are the Best Prime Day Sneaker Deals

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

Amazon Prime Day Early Access is in full swing and we’ve rounded up some of the best music and entertainment deals here. But aside from electronics, there are also a number of Prime Day sneaker deals to be had with discounts of more than 50% off top brands like Adidas, New Balance, Reebok, NikeCrocs and Under Armour. You’ll also find sales on select items from Converse and Puma.

Prime Day is a members-only event (if you’re not a Prime member, click here to start your free 30-day trial). Aside from sneakers and apparel, Prime Day offers some of the year’s deepest discounts on TV’s, headphones,  smartphones, speakers, sound bars, furniture, appliances, Amazon devices, beauty and personal care essentials, kitchenware (air fryers included), mattresses, bedding, pet supplies, laptops, cameras, air conditioners, air purifiers, outdoor gear and more from major brands like Apple, Samsung, Roku, Vitamix, Philips, Keruig, Braun, Black + Decker, iDesign, iRobot, SonyBoseGE, SharkNinjaAmazon Essentials and Amazon Basics.

Prime Day is also a great way to support small businesses.

In addition to Amazon’s Prime Day sneaker deals, there are also a ton of Prime Day Early Access fashion deals available online. We spotted discounts on name brand watches, summer apparel, suits and more here.

Over in shoes and accessories, find great Prime Day deals on shoes and bags, with brands like Aldo, Sperry, Keen, lots of boots, and Taylor Swift-fave Keds, discounted here. Looking for more lifestyle kicks or performance footwear? Here are some of the best Prime Day sneaker sales to shop.

1. New Balance

Stars like Jack Harlow and Jaden Smith are fans of the retro styling of New Balance sneakers. Right now, Amazon’s New Balance Prime Day sale has shoes upwards of 40% off online. Men’s shoes start at just $23, while women’s footwear, like the best-selling Fresh Foam Roav, start at just $36.22.

New Balance Men’s 237 V1 Classic Sneaker

$52.20

$79.99

35% OFF

The New Balance Men’s 237 V1 Iconic Sneakers offer up a retro ‘80s vibe, with modern design elements that will look great with your wardrobe. These sneakers are available in seven different colors including blue, white and red but sizes and quantities vary.

Amazon is an official New Balance retailer online, so all of these Prime Day sneaker deals are legitimate. The shoes and apparel are also eligible for Amazon’s Prime Wardrobe program, which lets you try on everything with free returns and exchanges for up to seven days. See all the New Balance Prime Day deals here

2. Adidas

Artists like Pharrell have long collaborated with Adidas, citing the athletic brand’s long-time legacy in sports, and their commitment to fresh, innovative style. Amazon’s Prime Day sneaker sale has Adidas shoes from $18, plus a ton of clothing, gear, bags and accessories marked down as well. Adidas golf shoes are part of a Prime Day sale, with this top-rated pair starting at just $25. Even the iconic Adidas track pants and track jackets are on sale, starting at just $21. See all the Adidas Prime Day deals here

adidas Men’s Ultraboost 21 Running Shoe

$from $75.46

$180

Need a pair of slides for summer? The Adidas Ultraboost are probably one of the most recognizable shoes from the brand along with Adidas Grandcourt sneakers and the Adilette Comfort Slides.  Perfect for running, Adidas Ultraboost feature a rubber sole, midfoot cage, and heel counter for foot support. Find other Adidas on sale here

3. Nike

Nike is no stranger to Prime Day and this year, the brand is offering modest deals on sneakers, slides, workout gear, bags and more. We spotted shoes starting at $35 and fitness gear from $15. Sizes and styles available for men, women and kids. Looking for grail-worthy kicks? Amazon Prime Day is a great time to score those hard-to-find, collectible sneakers, like the Nike Vapormax “Off White.” Yes, Amazon has those too and while they’re no longer on discount they are selling out fast. See all the Nike Prime day deals here.

Nike Men’s Court Legacy Gymnastics Shoe

$56

$79.99

30% OFF

Looking for a cloth sneaker? This Nike gymnastics shoe has a fabric upper and rubber sole with a minimalist design. They’re stylish, but probably not great for walking on hard surfaces for long periods of time, so if you need more support add a pair of shoe pads to your shopping cart. Find more Nike deals here

4. Puma

Puma’s Prime Day sale includes select styles from the brand’s collaborations with Dua Lipa, Cara Delevingne and Lauren London, plus styles seen on artists like The Weeknd and Selena Gomez. Women’s tops start at $10, and sneakers start at around $30, while men’s sneakers start at just $21.

Puma Women’s California Sneaker

$48.59

$53.99

10% OFF

There’s nothing like a classic! The Women’s Puma California sneaker comes in over a dozen different colors but the price varies, depending on which design you choose. The low-top, white and red sneakers featured are made from 100% leather and on sale for less than $50. See more Pumas here.

5. Under Armour

Under Armour’s Prime Day sale has tops, pants, shoes, bags and accessories for up to 30% off. The Prime Day sale includes Under Armour golf accessories and apparel, plus cross-training and fitness gear, sneakers and more. See all the Under Armour Prime Day Early Access deals here.

Under Armour Men’s Charged Pursuit 3 Running Shoe

$from $35.32

$70

Looking for a budget-friendly running shoe? Under Armour’s Assert 9 sneakers are out of stock in most colors and no longer on sale, but the Charged Pursuit 3 running shoe are on sale for $35 and up (men’s and women’s sizes). It may not be the most stylish shoe around, but it’s certainly durable — and 46% off for Prime Day, making it one of the most affordable selections on our list. The Assert 9’s are available in over a dozen different colors.

6. Reebok

Reebok’s Amazon store is offering up to 39% off select shoes during Prime Day. The sale includes the Reebok National Geographic, the men’s Hi2 sneaker in black ($42.43) or white.

Reebok Men’s Classic Harman Run Sneaker

$49.96

$65

23% OFF

The cheapest among the bunch are these men’s classic Harman Run Sneakers from Reebok, which are on sale for $50. With a comfortable and sturdy design, these stylish, low-cut trainers feature a die-cut EVA midsole providing lasting support to keep you moving comfortably all day long. See more Reebok Prime Day deals here

7. Timberland

The Timberland Men’s Anti-Fatigue Hiking Boots are a best-seller on Amazon. Made from full-grain https://amzn.to/3yAcllzleather, the waterproof boots comes in six different colors including brown, black, grey nubuck, full grain and dark brown.

Timberland Men’s Anti-Fatigue Hiking Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Boot

$89.95

$115

22% OFF

The shaft of the boot measures Shaft measures approximately 5″ from arch, the heel measures 1.5 inches with a 1-inch platform. Find other Timberlands on sale here and here for women’s boots in different styles and designs. 

Blake Shelton Announces He’s Leaving ‘The Voice’: ‘This Show Has Changed My Life’

Blake Shelton — who has been a coach on NBC’s The Voice since it premiered in 2011 — won’t be turning his red chair around for much longer. The country superstar revealed on Tuesday (Oct. 11) that he will be leaving the singing competition after next season.

“This show has changed my life in every way for the better and it will always feel like home to me,” Shelton wrote in a statement posted to social media. “It’s been a hell of a ride over these 12 years of chair turns and I want to thank everyone at The Voice from NBC, every producer, the writers, musicians, crew and catering people, you are the best. It takes a lot of work, passion, and adult beverages (Ha!) to pull off a live show twice a week.”

He continued, “I’ve made lifelong bonds with Carson and every single one of my fellow coaches over the years, including my wife Gwen Stefani!”

The singer concluded his statement by thanking the contestants and the fans. “It would not happen without you,” he wrote.

While Shelton will be departing The Voice, fans will get to enjoy his banter for a while longer, as season 22 is in the midst of its knockout rounds, and season 23 is just around the corner after that. As coach, the “Boys ‘Round Here” singer remains the statistically best coach in terms of winning seasons — having crowned a champ from his team in eight of the show’s 21 seasons.

In addition, NBC revealed its coaches for season 23, which includes Shelton and The Voice veteran Kelly Clarkson. Newcomers Niall Horan and Chance the Rapper will also join the judges panel.

See Shelton’s full statement posted to Twitter below.