Carter Rubin has advanced to the finale on The Voice after his performance of “Rainbow Connection” by The Muppets. The 15 year old singer is the contestant representing Team Gwen (Gwen Stefani) in the two night finale on Monday, December 14 and Tuesday, December 15th.
“It was a really meaningful song for me, because Gwen was the one who picked it out for me,” the singer told reporters after the show. “She said that she wanted me to take this classic and make it my own, and that’s what I tried my best to do.” “I think it paid off. I dedicated this song to my brother, who’s on the autism spectrum, because the song kind of reminds me of innocence, and just believing, and that’s the way he lives, so I think it was a really nice dedication to him.”
Carter grew up in a musical family and was inspired by his grandfather, a guitarist and backup vocalist for the group Jay and the Americans. He loves singing and playing music, especially with his brother. They perform together at their family’s autism foundation, which surprises families with trips to amusement parks. Outside of the foundation, Carter also performs in his school’s musicals and various community events.
When talking about his experience on the show, Carter said “this has been the time of my life. “I’ve made so many new friends, a lot of people and role models that I can look up to. “I made a partnership with Gwen, she’s an incredible coach and incredible mentor. She gives the most amazing advice. If I take anything from this experience it would be her advice. I take her advice and take it to heart and have it follow me wherever I go and do. It has taught me so much about this experience. I went in with an open mind, just wanting to soak up anything I could, and it’s just been incredible.”
When asked why he chose to audition for the show he stated “I have been watching “The Voice” for many years, and if I was going to be honest about all the singing shows out there, “The Voice” is the one that showcases the true raw talent. There is no gimmick at all, it is just these inspiring artists pursuing what they want to do in life, which is singing and music and to entertain. That is what drew me into auditioning for this show. What you see is what you get, and everyone is so genuine and so real. It has been the best experience. I have been really happy and happy that I am on this show and not another.”
Watch Carter’s performance of Rainbow Connection.
