Utah singer Keiyana Osmond brought a restrained, soulful approach to Maroon 5’s “She Will Be Loved” on Season 30 of NBC’s The Voice, setting her apart from the big, belting interpretations often associated with the song. Her performance won her Battle Round, and coach Kelly Clarkson praised the individuality behind it: “Your voice is the most interesting story.”
Osmond has described making familiar songs her own as one of her favorite parts of music. That instinct reflects a broader aim: to build a sound that feels personal rather than imitate singers whose strengths are different from hers.
Finding a musical identity
Now living in Salt Lake City, Osmond grew up in Cache Valley and began inventing songs at age three. She asked for a guitar at 10, then began writing music. Basketball later took priority during her teenage years, until an aunt encouraged her to enter a singing competition. Osmond won, and started pursuing music more seriously.
Her route to the show included an earlier audition about a decade ago that did not advance. She also wondered whether her less powerhouse-driven style would suit a televised singing contest. On this season, country musician Riley Green was the only coach to turn for her Blind Audition performance of Sixpence None the Richer’s “Kiss Me.” Green became her coach and encouraged her to develop the qualities that make her distinct.
Osmond has said she values Green’s interest in reshaping arrangements so performers can tell their own stories. She hopes to carry that approach through the competition, including the upcoming Cut Week, while staying true to her own musical identity.
Making room for listeners to see themselves
Osmond is lesbian and was formerly a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She has discussed not always seeing herself reflected in the music and communities around her while growing up. Now, she hopes her songs can help people in similar situations hear their own experiences represented.
For her, a performance is about more than vocal technique: she wants listeners to connect with the person and perspective behind the music. That personal purpose informs both her covers and her original songwriting.
Osmond is distantly related to Donny and Marie Osmond: her great-grandfather was Donny’s cousin, though she has never met either entertainer. She is also working on an EP that she hopes to release next year. Alongside three other Utah contestants—Cade Mower, Cal Cook and Johnnie Kapua—she is representing the state on Season 30, but her distinctive interpretations are helping define her own place in the competition.
