Bamboo: No favoritism

“The Voice of the Philippines” judge-coach Bamboo clarified that he did not practice favoritism when he chose Lee Grane over Dan Billano in the reality singing competition’s first battle round.

“I’ve been reading the comments from last nights battle, Lee vs Dan …1st thing no favoritism…I don’t play that…I go for who I think I can help..who I can develop…who I think has something to say…I’ve spent many hours with my team (off camera)..i try my best to know them as best I can…as singers, songwriters, performers and people,” Bamboo posted in his official Facebook account on Monday, July 29.

While Lee impressed many viewers during her blind auditions, others turned to social media and said Dan performed U2’s “One” better during the battle round.

Why Lee?

The rocker judge acknowledged that Dan stood out  as a performer, but he chose Lee because he believes in her artistry and thinks she deserves to grow throughout the competition.

“I believe in Dan…if I remember correctly I was the only one who turned  …I heard something special in Dan...and last nights performance…he proved me right…he shined..i was so happy for him…and hated …HATED to make that decision…But Lee…Lee has a story to tell…I just feel that I have to give her that chance…she has an artists soul…she was lost and all she needed was to find a bit of light…I know lee ..her strengths and weaknesses…I pushed Lee…put her in a situation where I knew was difficult…but I’m always a believer of adversity…to be tested…GROWTH over prize…and in defeats we grow stronger…Lee lost that “battle” but she deserves to move on..be heard…i could have easily changed the key for Lee to make it easier on her but I didn’t…I wanted to hear Lee…”

Bamboo added that he admires Dan’s talent and is willing to mentor him anytime.

“this battle wasn’t about Lee vs Dan..it was Lee vs Lee…Dan Vs Dan…i will continue to sit on my chair…and continue to make these hard decisions...but know this..i am commited to my artists..my team a 100% …the lights go off…and I’m still there..i’m no longer dans “coach”…but if he’ll have me as a friend and mentor to guide him…I will try my best to get Dans story told…it just wasn’t his time…I know Dan…and all he needs is a guide ..let me be that guide…be positive ..lets support both artists..‪#‎RESPECT ‪#‎KAMPKAWAYAN ‪#‎VOICEPH”

It will be recalled that Bamboo promised to go by “gut feel, artistry and faith” in making decisions.

“I know the weight of my responsibility… I take what I do very seriously…so to make decisions on one performance….on a “battle”…I think my guys deserve better than that..”