There are rare moments on television that make people stop and listen. One of those moments came when Ruby Leigh, a 16-year-old from a tiny town in Missouri, stepped onto The Voice stage and delivered a performance that stunned both the judges and the audience.
With a quiet confidence and a vintage cowboy hat, Ruby performed Patsy Montana’s “I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart.” It’s a bold choice — a country classic filled with fast vocal runs and traditional yodeling. But what happened next was unforgettable.
Before Ruby could even finish the first verse, John Legend turned his chair, clearly impressed. As she launched into the yodeling section, Reba McEntire hit her button with a huge smile. Then came Gwen Stefani and Niall Horan. A full four-chair turn. All four judges were captivated.
The audience gave her a standing ovation. The applause wasn’t just loud — it was heartfelt. There was something special about Ruby Leigh. Something honest, rare, and refreshing.
From Small-Town Missouri to National Stage
Ruby comes from a town so small it doesn’t even have a stoplight. But what she lacks in population, she makes up for in passion. Raised on classic country, Ruby’s gift for yodeling and storytelling started young. And though she never imagined she’d be on a national stage, her sister signed her up for The Voice — almost as a joke.
That “joke” became one of the most viral blind auditions of the season, racking up millions of views online. Suddenly, the girl from the backroads of Missouri was trending on every platform, winning hearts across the country.
Reba McEntire Becomes Her Coach
After her audition, the real challenge began: choosing a coach. All four judges tried to win her over — even attempting their own yodeling to impress her. But Ruby’s heart was with Reba McEntire. As a lifelong country fan, the decision felt natural.
Under Reba’s guidance, Ruby grew even stronger as a performer. In one of the most emotional moments of the season, she performed Reba’s own hit “You Lie.” Reba was brought to tears, and the crowd erupted. Ruby later said, “At least I did a good job. I made Reba happy — I’m complete.”
A Star Is Born
Ruby Leigh made it all the way to the finale of The Voice Season 24. She didn’t win — she finished as runner-up to Huntley — but that didn’t matter. To millions, Ruby was the real heart of the season.
Since the show, she’s performed twice at the Grand Ole Opry, appeared at the Missouri State Fair, and even surprised fans by performing with her favorite band, Green Day. She’s been touring, writing original music, and connecting with fans around the country.
Missouri’s state government even honored her on the Senate floor — a rare recognition for a teenage artist, and a sign of just how deeply she’s inspired her community.
More Than Just a Singer
Ruby Leigh’s story is about more than music. It’s about staying true to your roots, daring to be different, and honoring the gifts you’ve been given. Her yodeling may sound like something from a different era, but her message is timeless.
She reminds us that talent doesn’t have to come from big cities or fancy studios. Sometimes, it comes from small towns, open skies, and voices filled with heart.
You can watch Ruby Leigh’s full blind audition on The Voice below: