The Voice: la plus belle voix has delivered many unforgettable moments, but few Blind Auditions have resonated as deeply as Gabriella Laberge’s haunting interpretation of The Scientist by Coldplay. Airing during the 2016 season, her performance stood out not only for its vocal beauty but also for its unique artistic presentation. Gabriella didn’t simply sing the song—she reimagined it, blending delicate violin playing with emotionally charged vocals to create one of the most memorable auditions in the show’s history.
A Risky and Original Approach
Originally released in 2002, “The Scientist” is one of Coldplay’s most iconic ballads. Known for its melancholic piano melody and introspective lyrics, the song explores regret, longing, and the desire to return to simpler times. It has been covered many times, but its emotional depth and recognizable structure make it challenging to reinterpret without losing authenticity.
Gabriella Laberge approached the song with artistic courage. Rather than beginning with vocals, she opened her audition by playing the violin. The soft, trembling notes filled the studio, immediately shifting the atmosphere. The decision to start instrumentally was bold, especially in a Blind Audition where time is precious and coaches must quickly decide whether to turn.
At first, the coaches listened attentively but did not immediately press their buttons. The simplicity of the violin created a quiet tension in the room. Gabriella seemed completely immersed in her music, her focus unwavering. The audience sensed that something special was unfolding.
The Turning Point
As the violin introduction transitioned into vocals, Gabriella’s soft, breathy voice entered almost like a whisper. Her tone was fragile yet controlled, carrying an emotional sincerity that complemented the song’s reflective lyrics. She did not overpower the melody; instead, she allowed it to breathe.
Despite the beauty of her performance, the coaches hesitated at first. The Blind Audition format of The Voice France demands quick decisions, and sometimes understated performances take longer to reveal their full power. Yet Gabriella remained composed. She continued to build the arrangement gradually, layering emotion with each phrase.
The pivotal moment came when she returned to the violin during a dramatic instrumental break. This unexpected shift added intensity and originality, transforming the familiar ballad into something cinematic. The emotional crescendo that followed finally moved one of the coaches to press the button—just seconds before the audition ended.
That last-second chair turn created a surge of relief and joy throughout the studio. It was a testament to perseverance and artistry. Gabriella had taken a risk, stayed true to her vision, and ultimately succeeded.
Emotional Depth and Storytelling
What made Gabriella Laberge’s performance extraordinary was its storytelling. “The Scientist” is a song rooted in vulnerability. Its lyrics speak of apology and longing, and Gabriella delivered them with quiet authenticity. She did not rely on vocal acrobatics or dramatic gestures. Instead, she conveyed emotion through subtle phrasing and dynamic control.
Her voice carried a delicate rasp that added texture to the performance. Each word felt intentional, as though she were reliving the story rather than performing it. The combination of violin and vocals created a layered emotional experience—melancholic yet hopeful.
The minimal arrangement allowed the lyrics to shine. Lines like “Nobody said it was easy” resonated deeply, floating gently over the soft instrumental backdrop. Gabriella’s interpretation felt intimate, almost confessional, drawing listeners into her world.
Musical Versatility
One of the most impressive aspects of the audition was Gabriella’s dual talent. Not only did she demonstrate vocal ability, but she also showcased instrumental mastery. Playing the violin on such a high-pressure stage requires concentration and technical precision. Balancing that with live singing is even more demanding.
Her violin performance was expressive and controlled, enhancing the emotional arc of the song. Rather than serving as a simple accompaniment, it became an extension of her voice. The interplay between instrument and vocal created a dynamic rarely seen in Blind Auditions.
This versatility set her apart from other contestants. The coaches on The Voice France often look for artists who bring something distinctive to the competition. Gabriella’s ability to merge classical instrumentation with contemporary pop-rock achieved exactly that.
The Coach’s Reaction
When the chair finally turned, it was clear that the coach recognized something unique. The emotional weight of a last-second decision often makes the moment even more powerful. Gabriella’s relief was visible, and the audience erupted in applause.
The coach likely praised her originality and courage. Choosing to begin with violin, maintaining subtlety throughout much of the performance, and trusting the gradual build required confidence. The feedback likely emphasized her artistic identity rather than just her vocal technique.
In The Voice France, mentors seek contestants who can grow and evolve. Gabriella’s audition demonstrated not only skill but also a clear artistic vision. That clarity is invaluable in a competition where authenticity often determines longevity.
Audience Impact and Viral Recognition
Gabriella Laberge’s Blind Audition quickly gained widespread attention beyond the televised broadcast. Performances that combine emotional resonance with originality often find new life online, and hers was no exception. Viewers around the world were moved by the understated beauty of her interpretation.
Many fans commented on the suspense of the delayed chair turn. The near-miss ending added dramatic tension, making the final decision even more satisfying. It reminded audiences that perseverance and belief in one’s artistry can yield powerful rewards.
Her audition became a reminder that subtle performances can be just as impactful as high-powered vocal showcases. In an era where loud and flashy often dominate, Gabriella proved that quiet intensity can captivate just as effectively.
A Defining Moment in The Voice France 2016
Season 2016 of The Voice France featured many talented contestants, but Gabriella Laberge’s rendition of “The Scientist” remains one of its defining moments. It encapsulated the essence of the Blind Auditions: vulnerability, risk, and the transformative power of music.
Her performance demonstrated that artistry is not about imitation but interpretation. While honoring Coldplay’s original composition, she infused it with her own sensibility, creating something fresh and deeply personal.
The stage of The Voice France is designed to reveal hidden gems, and Gabriella’s audition did precisely that. By trusting her musical instincts and embracing a unique arrangement, she turned a globally recognized song into an unforgettable personal statement.
Conclusion
Gabriella Laberge’s Blind Audition in 2016 stands as a powerful example of artistic authenticity. Her rendition of “The Scientist” was not built on vocal fireworks or dramatic theatrics. Instead, it thrived on emotional honesty, musical versatility, and fearless originality.
Through delicate violin melodies and heartfelt vocals, she transformed the stage into an intimate space of reflection. The last-second chair turn only amplified the emotional journey, making the moment unforgettable for viewers and coaches alike.
In the world of televised talent competitions, it is often the boldest risks that create the most lasting impressions. Gabriella Laberge’s performance proved that staying true to one’s artistic vision can turn a simple audition into a timeless moment of musical storytelling.
