Jennifer Nettles and ‘Duets’ Partner J Rome Set the Show’s Bar High with Sugarland’s ‘Tonight’
Tonight is the big kickoff for ABC’s new singing competition show ‘Duets,’ so it makes sense to start the show with Sugarland‘s song ‘Tonight.’ And what a start it was. If every performance is going to be this hot, you won’t need to leave the house for a concert all summer.
Each superstar has chosen two duet partners. Jennifer Nettles, of Sugarland fame, chose a young man from New York named J Rome. She chose wisely because his voice blended with hers in a smooth, sugary sweetness. But their performance went beyond that. They were obviously working to sing the song together and not competing for center stage, even their casual movements were well-coordinated. Nettles was clearly having a great time singing with a new partner.
When it was time to hear from the other superstars, they couldn’t contain their excitement. They all felt the show had gotten off to a great start. Kelly Clarkson said they were outstanding together and that “soulful music rings clear in any genre.” John Legend echoed Clarkson, telling J Rome he was phenomenal and he looks and sounds like a star. Robin Thicke threw down the gauntlet, telling J Rome that because he’s handsome and has an amazing voice, “I don’t like you already.” He then stood up and shouted to the audience, “That’s how you start a season of ‘Duets!’”
He was right. This show needed a hot start to stand out in a crowd of music competition shows. It’s got a different spin than the others and it’s fun to watch the stars enjoying themselves as much as the competitors do. Having them join the competition is a great way to keep us watching. The only thing we’ll miss are the really bad auditions.
Watch J Rome + Jennifer Nettles Perform ‘Tonight’