Josh Kaufman

Born in Florida, Josh Kaufman cultivated a soulful vocal approach inclined toward earthy pop shaped by R&B influences. Long active on the Indianapolis music circuit, he achieved his greatest visibility by capturing the title on season six of NBC’s The Voice. His performances began in childhood, when he started playing piano at church at age six. In 1990 his family relocated to Blacksburg, Virginia, where he completed high school while singing in the choir. At 16 an unsuccessful appearance on Star Search nevertheless ignited his determination to pursue singing professionally. After graduation he enrolled at Anderson University and Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, ultimately earning his degree from the latter institution. In 2010 he assembled the soul band the New Etiquette, which began gigging regularly throughout Indianapolis; two years later the group issued its six-track, self-titled EP. Away from music, Kaufman is married with three children and works as an SAT prep tutor. His 2014 audition for The Voice earned him a slot after he sang George Michael’s “One More Try.” During the season he appeared on both Adam Levine’s team and Usher’s team. A viewer favorite, his version of Sam Smith’s “Stay with Me” reached the top of the digital charts. In May 2014 he defeated Jake Worthington and Christina Grimmie to win the competition. Republic Records then released the compilation The Voice: The Complete Season 6 Collection, documenting his performances on the program.