Jej Vinson was backup singer before taking 'The Voice' spotlight

HOLLYWOOD -- Jej Vinson took the spotlight like a pro and impressed all the celebrity coaches at his blind audition on “The Voice” season 16.

He did the musical arrangement and sang his own version of Drake’s popular song “Passion Fruit.”

“I studied popular music performance in USC so part of that is learning theory and learning arranging. Over the time, I kinda got obsessed in arranging and composing music. Something that I really like doing is sitting down in the piano, playing songs and turning songs into something like my own,” he said.

Though he’s been singing since he was five years old, Vinson had no plans of joining a talent show until a casting producer noticed his voice when he performed as a backup singer for a friend’s show in Los Angeles.

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He chose Kelly Clarkson as his mentor on “The Voice” because he believes she will help him become a better performer.

“I’ve struggled a little bit with self-confidence and stuff. I was a little bit insecure, maybe because of the fact that there is a stigma going around in LA that if you’re an Asian and you’re trying to pursue your dreams, it’s not going to happen for you because you’re a minority, especially if you’re an immigrant,” he said.

“That kind of affected a little bit my insecurities but it gave me a little bit of hope knowing that Kelly and all the three other coaches, how much faith they have in me, especially Kelly. It’s a great affirmation that I am good enough to survive in this industry and I can also make it,” he added.

Vinson was born in Davao and his family moved to the United States when he was 15. He did well academically, even getting a recognition from former President Barrack Obama.

Later, he got the chance to sing for him and first lady Michelle Obama when his group was invited to the White House.

The singer will be seen next on “The Voice” battle rounds.