Beth Griffith-Manley from NBC’s “The Voice" stops by to share her success story with LeadingwithLee

Singer, songwriter and actress Beth Griffith-Manley was recently a contestant on Season 16 of NBC's "The Voice" starring coaches Blake Shelton, Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine and John Legend. Beth caught the ear of John Legend and Kelly Clarkson during her blind audition with a version of "Until You Come Back to Me" by the late Aretha Franklin. She chose Kelly Clarkson as her coach, but was later stolen by John Legend during the The Voice Battles and joined his team. Beth shares her success story with us as well as her experience as a contestant on "The Voice"

Q. Beth, thanks for stopping by to share your story with us. We'd first like to know have you always had the passion to sing?

Yes !! I have always loved singing and had a passion for singing even when my voice was not developed as a little girl. In school I was always in the choir and band and singing to every song on the radio! 

Q. Can you tell us how you landed a spot on "The Voice" and your experience as a contestant? 

The Voice Casting reached out to me and offered me the opportunity to have an audition for the show. At that time, I was totally uninterested in being on a voice competition show so I declined the invitation. I released my first album and saw how difficult it was to promote it as an indie artist.  The show happened to call again about a year later and asked me to audition again and I decided to try something different. I am so glad that I decided to take the chance to audition. It was a wonderful experience being on the show. I learned a lot and grew as an artist and as a person and got great exposure!! 

Q. At one point, you were a background vocalist for Anita Baker and have also worked with Aretha Franklin. How was it working these iconic ladies?

I sang background for Anita Baker for five years and toured the world with her. Currently I am a background singer for Motown recording artist Kem and I’ve worked with him almost 6 years. Working with Aretha Franklin was somewhat of a different situation. I actually did not do background vocals for her or sing with her. I sang for her. I was invited by her to participate in a music celebration that the City of Detroit did called Detroit Music Weekend in her honor. Aretha Franklin was the featured artist and this celebration happened one year before her untimely passing. I was so honored that Ms. Franklin personally picked me as one of the singers to honor her in song during this celebration. 

Q. In addition to singing, you are also an actress. Are there any current or upcoming projects in the works? 

I’ve received a couple offers for upcoming stage plays, but nothing is confirmed at this time. I’ll pick the right production to be apart of soon.