Two of Team Blake’s powerful country forces on The Voice, Barrett Baber and Blind Joe, faced off Monday night (Oct. 26) during the first episode of Knockout Rounds, vying for a slot in the live playoffs. Baber chose to bring Zac Brown Band’s “Colder Weather” to the stage, while Blind Joe went a more classic route with Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson’s “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys."

“They’re two strong country veterans with so much experience. It only seemed fair to put these two against each other,” coach Blake Shelton said.

Baber was up first, but not without a little help from guest advisor Rihanna and Shelton during rehearsals.

“You’re being polite in your performance,” Rihanna offered. “I want you to be engaged."

Baber took that advice to heart and poured his soul into the song, which he says was personal for him, as it reflects what it feels like being apart from his family during this process.

His passion showed through as his strong, smooth voice soared on the tune, and it was clear he meant every word, singing the last few directly to his wife in the audience.

“It’s so clear who you are, and that’s the sign of a true artist,” fellow coach Gwen Stefani commented.

“You take people on an emotional excursion,” Pharrell added.

Next was Blind Joe, who also got some face time with Rihanna and Shelton before the performance. Rihanna was blown away by the artist, and Shelton encouraged him to simply shake off the nerves, avoid the ad-libs and “invest his heart into it."

Blind Joe’s classically country voice rolled through the melodies with ease, though nerves peeked through on a few lines.

“You took that song to different heights,” Pharrell commented afterward.

Though Shelton admitted he had a tough decision to make, ultimately he went with Baber as the winner. “You guys have both overcome so much in your life, and you’re standing up there on The Voice,” the star said to both contestants. “It makes me want to be a better man."

Check out the full knockout performances above. Shelton has been a coach on The Voice since it began nine seasons ago and has molded artists like Cassadee Pope, Danielle Bradbery and the Swon Brothers during its run so far.

Watch Blind Joe Sing Willie and Waylon on 'The Voice'

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