Jan Dan, the talented Newark-born contestant on The Voice, made his final stand during the Dec. 4 live shows with a powerful rendition of John Mayer’s “Gravity.”
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Competing for the coveted Instant Save, Dan’s soulful performance impressed the audience and judges, but ultimately, it wasn’t enough to secure him a spot in the top five.
Dan’s heartfelt take on the 2005 ballad was a showcase of vulnerability and raw talent. “Gravity,” a song that earned Mayer a Grammy for Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance, provided the perfect canvas for Dan’s expressive voice and emotional connection. The song’s history on the Billboard charts—including a peak at No. 18 on the Adult Alternative Airplay chart in 2007—underscored its significance as a timeless anthem of struggle and resilience.
Though the audience ultimately voted Danny Joseph from Team Reba into the final five, Dan left the stage with a message of gratitude. “Gwen, I love you. You’ve helped me evolve as an artist and a person,” he said, reflecting on his journey from a budding talent to a standout performer.
Gwen returned the love, saying, “You keep surprising me. It’s true, you have broken out of your shell. It’s crazy, you’ve got the swag, you’re sexy. Everything about that performance you just did, you’re moving people because you’re an artist. You’re really a true artist that just has a vision for yourself and you keep going towards that vision no matter what happens next, because I do believe in you. You’re so talented.”
A father to a newborn daughter, Nori Arabella, Dan often spoke of her as his inspiration throughout the competition. Balancing fatherhood with his pursuit of musical success, he delivered standout performances, including a duet of “Roxanne” with Adam Bohanan, featuring Sting himself on bass.
Mayer’s track “Gravity” has had a notable impact on the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 18 on the Adult Alternative Airplay chart in 2007 and holding its place for 12 weeks. It also appeared on the Bubbling Under Hot 100 list, where it reached No. 20 in 2006.
Watch Jan Dan’s powerful final performance on The Voice here.
