News

Lee University alumnus Jordan Smith finished third in the NBC all-live music competition “American Song Contest” with his original song “Sparrow.” Winners were announced at the conclusion of Monday’s Grand Final performance, featuring the top 10 artists.

Based on the worldwide phenomenon “Eurovision Song Contest,” the “American Song Contest” is an 8-week, live entertainment event where 56 artists, representing their state, territory, or district, competed to win America’s vote for the best hit song.

AleXa, representing Oklahoma, came in first, while Colorado’s Riker Lynch took second. Although Smith placed third, he received more points from the judges than AleXa and Lynch, who each received more votes from the audience.

Smith, representing the state of Kentucky, is a singer/songwriter best known for winning season nine of NBC’s hit reality television series “The Voice,” a title he won while a student at Lee. He holds the record as the highest-selling artist in “The Voice” history and is the first artist ever to replace himself at #1 on the Christian Billboard chart.

During his time at Lee, Smith studied music business and was a member of Lee Singers and the LeeU Tech Crew.

Smith currently resides in Corbin, Kentucky, with his wife Kristen.

To view Smith’s Grand Final performance of “Sparrow,” visit Contest/Sparrow.

For more information about NBC’s “American Song Contest,” visit nbc.com/american-song-contest.