The Voice of Germany contestant refuses song due to religious beliefs

During the Battle rounds of The Voice of Germany, contestant Jessica Paulo, a 20-year-old Protestant, refused to perform the assigned duet “Ave Maria.” Paulo stated that the song is a Catholic prayer directed to Mary, whom she does not venerate, explaining, “I only worship Jesus Christ.” She also declined non-Christian titles, requesting instead a song that focuses generally on God.

Her duet partner, 46-year-old tenor Hank, expressed a different perspective, stating, “I just want to be a musician, not a preacher,” and noted that he wished to keep his faith personal. The conflict left coach Shirin David surprised and facing a difficult decision regarding the competition format.

To resolve the impasse, David implemented a special rule for the first time in the show’s history: instead of a joint duet, the contestants performed individual solo pieces. Paulo performed “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake, while Hank performed “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel. The decision to allow separate performances drew criticism from fellow coach Michi Beck, who suggested the duo should have found a musical compromise.