The Voice Kids on GMA-7: Is It the Judges or Are We Just Nostalgic?

 

If you’ve been keeping an eye on The Voice Kids since it made the switch to GMA-7, you’ve probably noticed a lot of chatter—not about the talent (which, by the way, is off the charts)—but about the judges. And let’s face it, people love comparing them to the OGs from ABS-CBN. Spoiler: the new lineup isn’t exactly getting standing ovations from the critics.

ABS-CBN’s Dream Team: Impossible to Top?

Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. Back in the ABS-CBN days, the judges’ panel was like the Avengers of Filipino music. You had Sarah Geronimo (Popstar Royalty, duh), Lea Salonga (a Tony Award-winning QUEEN), Bamboo (because what’s a singing show without a rockstar?), and Apl.de.ap from the Black Eyed Peas. Throw in legends like Sharon Cuneta, Martin Nievera, and KZ Tandingan, and it felt like every single one of them could fill an arena just by showing up.

These judges weren’t just famous—they were icons. Their experience alone made them the perfect mentors for the next generation of talent. So, yeah, the standard was sky-high.

GMA-7’s New Panel: Stars or... Not Quite There Yet?

Now fast forward to GMA-7’s lineup: Billy Crawford, Julie Anne San Jose, and SB19’s Pablo and Stell. Don’t get me wrong—they’re big names, and they have huge followings, but let’s be real: people are not holding back their comparisons to the previous roster.

Here’s the tea:

• Billy Crawford: The guy’s a veteran in the game, no doubt. From his child star days to winning Dancing with the Stars France, he’s got global appeal. But, when you throw his name next to Sarah G or Martin Nievera, people start raising eyebrows.

• Julie Anne San Jose: A certified vocal powerhouse, multi-instrumentalist, and someone with a massive fanbase. Still, fans are saying she doesn’t quite pack the same punch in terms of sheer influence that Lea or Sharon did.

• Pablo and Stell from SB19: These guys are crushing it in the P-pop scene, and SB19’s success is undeniable. But mentoring solo vocalists in a show like this? Fans are questioning whether their experience as part of a group translates to solo coaching. 

Is It Fair to Bash Them?

Now, here’s where things get tricky. Are Billy, Julie Anne, Pablo, and Stell superstars? Absolutely! But, if we’re talking vocal legends and long-time mentors, they don’t quite have the same heavyweight status as their ABS-CBN predecessors. And that’s where people are stuck. It’s not that they’re not talented—it’s just that the level of gravitas the old crew brought is hard to match.

To be fair, it’s not easy stepping into a role previously held by music royalty. The internet can be ruthless, and the fans aren’t exactly known for being subtle. But hey, if you’re following the show for the performances, you know these kids are still bringing their A-game.

The Judges’ Dynamic: Missing That Magic?

Another thing fans are pointing out: the chemistry. The old panel wasn’t just experienced; they vibed. There was this unspoken synergy between them. Now, with the new crew, some people feel like it’s not quite clicking. The feedback doesn’t have the same edge, and some viewers feel like the competitive spirit is a bit... softer.

So, What’s the Real Problem?

Is it that the new judges aren’t superstars? Or are we all just a little too nostalgic for the past? Maybe it’s a bit of both. There’s no denying that GMA-7’s judges are incredibly talented in their own right, but fans are clearly missing that iconic mix of industry vets who’ve been everywhere and done everything.

Can They Win Over the Critics?

Here’s the deal: It’s tough to fill the shoes of Sarah G, Lea, Bamboo, and Apl.de.ap. The comparisons were bound to happen. But maybe, just maybe, it’s time to give these new judges a little room to grow into their roles. Who knows? They might surprise us all. After all, every superstar had to start somewhere.

The debate over The Voice Kids judges is far from over, but at the end of the day, it’s the talent that keeps us hooked. Sure, the panel might not have the legendary status of the past, but there’s no doubt the kids are still delivering performances that wow. And hey, maybe the new judges will find their own rhythm soon enough.