Port Arthur native DeAndre Nico has advanced to the Top 13 in this season’s The Voice.

The 22-year-old said his biggest musical inspiration is the church, where he sang gospel and rhythm and blues. He’s a big Luther Vandross fan.

But, he added, he will sing anything and is not about to limit himself to any one genre.

Nico is on Team Adam (Maroon 5 lead singer Adam Levine is the coach) and said it is an amazing experience where he gets to sit down with Levine, talk and build a relationship.

He’s not allowed to give any clues to his upcoming performances.

“You will love it. I promise. Stay tuned,” Nico said.

Previous performances

• Back during the blind auditions that aired Sept. 25 Nico performed Bruno Mars’ “When I was Your Man” and all four judges turned their chairs.
• On Oct. 23, Nico battled with Funsho on New Edition’s “Can You Stand the Rain”
• On Nov. 5, Nico performed Hunter Hayes’
  “Wanted” during Knockouts
• His most recent performance, which aired Nov. 12, was John Legend’s “Ordinary People.”

 

Port Arthur, Harvey and fans

Nico, whose family home was destroyed during Tropical Storm Harvey’s devastating flood, has been back to his hometown several times for watch parties and such and sees a community with strength that will never give up, he said.

He puts his success on a higher power.

“I want to give the glory to God for giving me this opportunity, first and foremost,” he said. “Without Him I wouldn’t have gotten the votes or had people vote for me.”

He also gives thanks to his fans that continue to push him toward greatness.